Displaced comminuted fracture of shaft of ulna, unspecified arm
ICD-10 S52.253 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of displaced comminuted fracture of shaft of ulna, unspecified arm.
A displaced comminuted fracture of the shaft of the ulna is characterized by the breaking of the ulna bone into multiple fragments, with the fragments being misaligned. This type of fracture typically occurs due to high-energy trauma, such as falls or accidents, and can be associated with injuries to surrounding soft tissues, including muscles and nerves. The ulna is one of the two long bones in the forearm, and its shaft is crucial for forearm stability and function. Patients may present with significant pain, swelling, and deformity of the arm, and may have difficulty moving the wrist and elbow. Complications can include compartment syndrome, which is a serious condition that occurs when swelling leads to increased pressure within the muscle compartments, potentially compromising blood flow and nerve function. Treatment often involves orthopedic fixation procedures, such as internal fixation with plates and screws, to realign the bone fragments and stabilize the fracture for proper healing. Rehabilitation is essential to restore function and strength to the arm following the injury.
Detailed operative notes, imaging reports, and follow-up assessments are essential for accurate coding.
Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or vehicular accidents.
Documentation must clearly indicate the type of fracture and any surgical interventions performed.
Initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment plans must be comprehensive.
Patients presenting with acute trauma to the arm requiring immediate evaluation.
Timely documentation is critical to capture the nature of the injury and any immediate interventions.
Used when surgical fixation is performed for a displaced comminuted fracture of the ulna.
Operative report detailing the procedure, materials used, and post-operative care.
Orthopedic surgeons must document the specifics of the fracture and fixation method.
A comminuted fracture involves the bone breaking 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.
