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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.235

S52.235

Billable

Nondisplaced oblique fracture of shaft of left ulna

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.235 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nondisplaced oblique fracture of shaft of left ulna.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A nondisplaced oblique fracture of the shaft of the left ulna is characterized by a fracture line that runs diagonally across the bone, without any significant displacement of the fracture fragments. This type of fracture typically occurs due to a direct blow or a fall onto an outstretched hand, which is common in sports injuries or accidents. The ulna is one of the two long bones in the forearm, and its shaft is crucial for the stability and function of the arm. Patients may present with pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the elbow and wrist. Diagnosis is confirmed through radiographic imaging, which reveals the fracture pattern. Treatment often involves conservative management, including immobilization with a splint or cast, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary if there is concern for instability or associated injuries. Complications such as compartment syndrome, although rare, can occur if there is significant swelling or bleeding within the forearm compartments, necessitating prompt evaluation and potential fasciotomy. Proper coding and documentation are essential for accurate billing and to ensure appropriate management of the injury.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between displaced and nondisplaced fractures
  • Understanding the specific location of the fracture (shaft vs. distal/proximal)
  • Identifying associated injuries or complications (e.g., compartment syndrome)
  • Variability in treatment approaches (conservative vs. surgical)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and location
  • Failure to document associated injuries or complications
  • Misclassification of fracture displacement status
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on treatment outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on fracture type, location, treatment plan, and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or accidents.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate imaging reports are included in documentation to support coding.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Initial assessment notes, imaging results, and any immediate interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute pain and swelling after trauma.

Billing Considerations

Document mechanism of injury and any signs of complications such as compartment syndrome.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.235 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding fractures, including the need to specify the type of fracture (nondisplaced) and the specific bone involved (ulna)
  • Ensure compliance with guidelines regarding the documentation of laterality

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.235 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25600CPT Code

Closed treatment of fracture, ulna, without manipulation

Clinical Scenario

Used when a nondisplaced fracture is treated conservatively.

Documentation Requirements

Document the type of fracture, treatment plan, and follow-up care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure accurate coding based on treatment provided.

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 billing and treatment tracking. S52.235 provides a clear distinction between nondisplaced and displaced fractures, which is crucial for appropriate management and reimbursement.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of billing and treatment tracking. S52.235 provides a clear distinction between nondisplaced and displaced fractures, which is crucial for appropriate management and reimbursement.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

billing and treatment tracking. S52.235 provides a clear distinction between nondisplaced and displaced fractures, which is crucial for appropriate management and reimbursement.

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 nondisplaced fracture?

A displaced fracture involves a separation of the fracture fragments, while a nondisplaced fracture maintains the alignment of the bone fragments despite the fracture.