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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.311

S52.311

Billable

Greenstick fracture of shaft of radius, right arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.311 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of greenstick fracture of shaft of radius, right arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A greenstick fracture is a type of incomplete fracture that occurs primarily in children due to the pliability of their bones. In the case of a greenstick fracture of the shaft of the radius in the right arm, the bone bends and partially breaks on one side while remaining intact on the other. This injury typically results from a fall or direct trauma to the arm. Clinically, patients may present with localized pain, swelling, and tenderness over the fracture site, along with limited range of motion. The diagnosis is confirmed through radiographic imaging, which reveals the characteristic bending and partial fracture of the radius. Treatment often involves immobilization with a cast or splint to allow for proper healing. In some cases, if the fracture is significantly displaced or if there are concerns about healing, surgical intervention may be necessary. Complications can include malunion or nonunion of the fracture, and in rare cases, compartment syndrome may develop if swelling is significant. Understanding the nature of greenstick fractures is crucial for appropriate management and coding.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between complete and incomplete fractures
  • Understanding pediatric vs. adult fracture coding
  • Identifying the specific location of the fracture
  • Recognizing associated injuries or complications

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inaccurate documentation of fracture type
  • Failure to specify laterality (right vs. left)
  • Misidentification of associated injuries
  • Inadequate follow-up documentation for treatment

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the mechanism of injury, physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or accidents in pediatric patients.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of fracture type and location, as well as any surgical interventions performed.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive history and physical examination, including developmental considerations and potential for growth plate involvement.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children presenting with arm pain after a fall, often requiring imaging to confirm diagnosis.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of growth and development in treatment plans and potential long-term follow-up.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.311 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding fractures, including specificity for laterality and type
  • Ensure compliance with documentation standards for fractures, including the mechanism of injury and treatment provided

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.311 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25600CPT Code

Closed treatment of fracture, radius

Clinical Scenario

Used when a greenstick fracture is treated without surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Document the method of treatment and follow-up care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure accurate coding based on treatment type.

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 greenstick fractures, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including greenstick fractures, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including greenstick fractures, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

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 a greenstick fracture?

A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture that occurs primarily in children, where the bone bends and partially breaks on one side.

How is a greenstick fracture treated?

Treatment typically involves immobilization with a cast or splint, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary if the fracture is significantly displaced.