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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.299

S52.299

Billable

Other fracture of shaft of unspecified ulna

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.299 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other fracture of shaft of unspecified ulna.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The S52.299 code is used to classify fractures of the shaft of the ulna that do not fall into more specific categories. These fractures can occur due to various mechanisms, including trauma from falls, sports injuries, or accidents. 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. Fractures in this area can lead to complications such as malunion, nonunion, or compartment syndrome, particularly if there is associated soft tissue injury. Compartment syndrome is a serious condition that can arise from swelling or bleeding within the muscle compartments of the forearm, leading to increased pressure and potential muscle and nerve damage. Treatment often involves orthopedic fixation procedures, which may include the use of plates, screws, or intramedullary nails to stabilize the fracture. Accurate coding of these fractures is essential for appropriate management and reimbursement, as well as for tracking outcomes and complications in orthopedic care.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture types and locations within the ulna
  • Potential for associated injuries to the radius or elbow joint
  • Need for detailed documentation of fracture characteristics
  • Differentiation from other ulna fractures and related codes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture specifics
  • Failure to document associated injuries or complications
  • Misclassification of fracture type
  • Inconsistent coding practices across providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and follow-up notes are essential for accurate coding.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from falls, sports injuries, or direct trauma requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly indicate the fracture type, treatment provided, and any complications.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment plans must be comprehensive.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute forearm pain and swelling after trauma.

Billing Considerations

Accurate coding requires clear documentation of the mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.299 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, S52
  • 299 should be used when the fracture is not specified as open or closed, and when no other specific code applies
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the use of this code and that all relevant details are captured

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.299 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25607CPT Code

Open treatment of fracture of ulna

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical fixation is performed for an ulna fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, fixation method, and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specifics of the fracture and the surgical approach.

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 ability to track outcomes and complications. S52.299 provides a broad classification that can capture a variety of ulna fractures, but it requires careful documentation to ensure accurate coding.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the ability to track outcomes and complications. S52.299 provides a broad classification that can capture a variety of ulna fractures, but it requires careful documentation to ensure accurate coding.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 are the common causes of ulna shaft fractures?

Common causes include falls, sports injuries, and direct trauma from accidents. The mechanism of injury often determines the fracture type and treatment approach.