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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.251

S52.251

Billable

Displaced comminuted fracture of shaft of ulna, right arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.251 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of displaced comminuted fracture of shaft of ulna, right arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A displaced comminuted fracture of the shaft of the ulna in the right arm is characterized by the breaking of the ulna bone into multiple fragments, with the fragments being misaligned. This type of fracture often results from high-energy trauma, such as falls or accidents, and can be associated with injuries to surrounding soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and nerves. The ulna, one of the two long bones in the forearm, plays a crucial role in wrist and elbow function. Such fractures can lead to complications like compartment syndrome, where increased pressure within the muscle compartments can compromise blood flow and nerve function. Treatment typically involves orthopedic fixation procedures, which may include internal fixation with plates and screws or external fixation, depending on the fracture's severity and the patient's overall health. Proper alignment and stabilization are essential for optimal healing and restoration of function.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of fracture types and classifications.
  • Involves knowledge of associated complications like compartment syndrome.
  • Documentation must specify the displacement and comminution.
  • Differentiation from similar codes for radius fractures.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and displacement.
  • Failure to document associated injuries or complications.
  • Incorrect coding of laterality (right vs. left).
  • Misunderstanding of the difference between comminuted and simple fractures.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed imaging reports, surgical notes, and follow-up assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or vehicular accidents.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of fracture characteristics and treatment plans.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment provided in the emergency setting.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute trauma and suspected fractures.

Billing Considerations

Accurate documentation of mechanism of injury and initial management is crucial.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.251 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of fracture type, location, and laterality
  • Include any associated conditions such as compartment syndrome or nerve injuries
  • displaced fractures or fractures of the radius unless specified

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.251 When
  • Exclude codes for non

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25607CPT Code

Open treatment of ulnar shaft fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for stabilization of the fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes detailing the procedure, materials used, and post-operative care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the complexity of the fracture and the rationale for surgical intervention.

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 claims and enhancing patient care through better data collection. S52.251 provides detailed information about the fracture type, which is crucial for treatment planning and outcomes assessment.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of claims and enhancing patient care through better data collection. S52.251 provides detailed information about the fracture type, which is crucial for treatment planning and outcomes assessment.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of claims and enhancing patient care through better data collection. S52.251 provides detailed information about the fracture type, which is crucial for treatment planning and outcomes assessment.

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 comminuted fracture and a simple fracture?

A comminuted fracture involves the bone being broken into multiple fragments, while a simple fracture is a clean break with two pieces. Comminuted fractures often require more complex treatment and have a higher risk of complications.