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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.231

S52.231

Billable

Displaced oblique fracture of shaft of right ulna

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/24/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.231 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of displaced oblique fracture of shaft of right ulna.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A displaced oblique fracture of the shaft of the right ulna is characterized by a break in the bone that occurs at an angle, resulting in the bone fragments being misaligned. This type of fracture typically occurs due to high-energy trauma, such as falls or sports injuries, and can lead to significant functional impairment if not treated appropriately. The ulna, one of the two long bones in the forearm, plays a crucial role in the stability and movement of the elbow joint. Displacement of the fracture can compromise surrounding soft tissues, potentially leading to complications such as compartment syndrome, which is a serious condition that occurs when pressure within the muscles builds to dangerous levels. Treatment often involves orthopedic fixation procedures, such as internal fixation with plates and screws, to realign the bone and stabilize the fracture. Proper documentation of the fracture type, location, and any associated complications is essential for accurate coding and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Need for precise documentation of fracture type and displacement
  • Differentiation from similar fracture codes
  • Potential for associated complications like compartment syndrome
  • Variability in treatment approaches and fixation methods

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture characteristics
  • Failure to note associated injuries or complications
  • Incorrect coding of laterality (right vs. left)
  • Misclassification of fracture type (oblique vs. transverse)

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and follow-up notes are essential to document the fracture type, treatment, and any complications.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from falls, sports injuries, or motor vehicle accidents are frequently encountered.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly indicate the method of fixation and any complications such as compartment syndrome.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment plans must be comprehensive to support the diagnosis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute trauma to the forearm or elbow requiring immediate evaluation and stabilization.

Billing Considerations

Timely documentation is critical, especially in cases where surgical intervention is required.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.231 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture type, laterality, and any associated complications
  • Include details on the mechanism of injury and treatment provided

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.231 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25607CPT Code

Open treatment of ulnar shaft fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical fixation is performed for a displaced fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, fixation method, and post-operative care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specifics of the fracture and the surgical approach.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S52.231 provides detailed information about the fracture type and location, which is essential for appropriate treatment and management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S52.231 provides detailed information about the fracture type and location, which is essential for appropriate treatment and management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S52.231 provides detailed information about the fracture type and location, which is essential for appropriate treatment and management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a displaced and non-displaced fracture?

A displaced fracture means that the bone fragments are misaligned, while a non-displaced fracture means the bone remains in its normal position despite the break.