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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.263

S52.263

Billable

Displaced segmental fracture of shaft of ulna, unspecified arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.263 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of displaced segmental fracture of shaft of ulna, unspecified arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A displaced segmental fracture of the shaft of the ulna is characterized by a break in the bone that results in two or more fragments, with at least one fragment being displaced from its normal anatomical position. 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, tendons, and nerves. The ulna, one of the two long bones in the forearm, plays a crucial role in the stability and function of the wrist and elbow. Displaced fractures can lead to complications such as malunion or nonunion if not properly managed. In cases where the fracture is segmental, it may involve multiple fracture lines along the shaft, complicating the healing process. Treatment often requires surgical intervention, including orthopedic fixation procedures, to realign the bone fragments and stabilize the fracture site. Close monitoring for complications such as compartment syndrome, which can occur due to swelling and increased pressure within the muscle compartments of the forearm, is essential for optimal recovery.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture patterns and displacement
  • Need for precise documentation of fracture type and location
  • Potential for associated soft tissue injuries
  • Variability in treatment approaches (surgical vs. non-surgical)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and displacement
  • Failure to document associated injuries or complications
  • Incorrect coding of the arm involved (left vs. right)
  • Misinterpretation of imaging results

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and follow-up notes are essential to support the diagnosis and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or vehicular accidents requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly indicate the type of fracture, any associated injuries, and the surgical techniques used for fixation.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Accurate initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment plans must be documented promptly.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute trauma to the arm, requiring immediate evaluation and potential stabilization.

Billing Considerations

Emergency department documentation should include mechanism of injury and initial management steps taken.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.263 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, S52
  • 263 should be used when a displaced segmental fracture of the ulna is confirmed through imaging
  • It is important to document the specific arm involved and any associated injuries
  • displaced fractures or fractures of other bones

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.263 When
  • Exclusion criteria include non

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 segmental fracture of the ulna.

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 fixation technique.

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. S52.263 provides a clear distinction for displaced segmental fractures, which aids in clinical management and research.

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. S52.263 provides a clear distinction for displaced segmental fractures, which aids in clinical management and research.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S52.263 provides a clear distinction for displaced segmental fractures, which aids in clinical management and research.

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 involves a break in the bone where the ends are not aligned, while a non-displaced fracture means the bone cracks but maintains its proper alignment.