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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.254

S52.254

Billable

Nondisplaced comminuted fracture of shaft of ulna, right arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.254 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nondisplaced comminuted fracture of shaft of ulna, right arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A nondisplaced comminuted fracture of the shaft of the ulna occurs when the bone is broken into multiple pieces but maintains its alignment. This type of fracture typically results from high-energy trauma, such as falls or sports injuries. The ulna, one of the two long bones in the forearm, plays a crucial role in wrist and elbow function. In this case, the fracture is located in the shaft of the ulna on the right arm, which may affect the patient's ability to perform daily activities. Clinical evaluation often includes physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays, to confirm the fracture type and assess for any associated injuries. Treatment may involve conservative management with immobilization or surgical intervention, depending on the fracture's stability and the patient's overall health. Complications such as compartment syndrome, which can occur due to swelling and increased pressure within the muscle compartments of the forearm, must be monitored closely. Proper orthopedic fixation procedures may be necessary to ensure optimal healing and restore function.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between displaced and nondisplaced fractures
  • Understanding comminuted fracture types
  • Identifying associated injuries in the forearm
  • Documentation of fracture specifics and treatment plans

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and location
  • Failure to document associated injuries or complications
  • Incorrect coding of treatment procedures
  • Lack of follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fracture repair, management of complications like compartment syndrome, and postoperative care.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of surgical procedures and any associated complications.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Acute trauma evaluation, fracture stabilization, and referral to orthopedic specialists.

Billing Considerations

Document the mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.254 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of fracture type, location, and treatment
  • Include any relevant external cause codes if applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.254 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 intervention is required for a nondisplaced comminuted fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document 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 data collection and reimbursement processes. S52.254 provides detailed information on fracture types, which aids in clinical decision-making and resource allocation.

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. S52.254 provides detailed information on fracture types, which aids in clinical decision-making and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S52.254 provides detailed information on fracture types, which aids in clinical decision-making and resource allocation.

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 nondisplaced and displaced fracture?

A nondisplaced fracture means the bone cracks but maintains its proper alignment, while a displaced fracture involves a complete break where the bone ends are misaligned.