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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.27

S52.27

Billable

Monteggia's fracture of ulna

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.27 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of monteggia's fracture of ulna.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Monteggia's fracture is characterized by an injury to the ulna accompanied by an associated fracture of the radial head. This injury typically occurs due to a fall on an outstretched hand or direct trauma to the forearm. Clinically, it presents with pain, swelling, and limited range of motion at the elbow joint. The fracture of the ulna is usually located in the mid-shaft region, while the radial head fracture can lead to complications such as instability of the elbow joint. Diagnosis is confirmed through radiographic imaging, which reveals both the ulna fracture and the radial head involvement. Treatment often involves orthopedic fixation procedures, such as open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), to stabilize the fracture and restore function. Complications may include compartment syndrome, which can arise from swelling and increased pressure within the forearm compartments, necessitating prompt surgical intervention. Proper management is crucial to prevent long-term disability and ensure optimal recovery.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of both ulna and radial injuries.
  • Involves knowledge of associated complications like compartment syndrome.
  • Documentation must specify the type and location of fractures.
  • Differentiation from other forearm fractures is necessary.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and location.
  • Failure to document associated injuries or complications.
  • Incorrect coding of the procedure performed.
  • Lack of follow-up documentation regarding recovery and complications.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging results, and post-operative assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fracture repair, management of complications like compartment syndrome, and follow-up care.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of fracture types and fixation methods used.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Initial assessment notes, imaging interpretations, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial evaluation of trauma patients with suspected fractures.

Billing Considerations

Accurate documentation of mechanism of injury and initial treatment provided.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.27 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring to include all relevant details about the fracture, including laterality and specific anatomical location

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.27 When
  • Exclude codes that do not accurately represent the injury

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

24500CPT Code

Open treatment of fracture of ulna

Clinical Scenario

Used during surgical intervention for Monteggia's fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and fixation method.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specific fixation technique used.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including Monteggia's fracture, which improves data accuracy and enhances the ability to track treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including Monteggia's fracture, which improves data accuracy and enhances the ability to track treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including Monteggia's fracture, which improves data accuracy and enhances the ability to track treatment outcomes.

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 primary treatment for Monteggia's fracture?

The primary treatment for Monteggia's fracture typically involves surgical intervention, specifically open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) to stabilize the fracture and restore function.