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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.319

S52.319

Billable

Greenstick fracture of shaft of radius, unspecified arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.319 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of greenstick fracture of shaft of radius, unspecified arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A greenstick fracture of the shaft of the radius is a type of incomplete fracture commonly seen in pediatric patients, characterized by a bending of the bone without complete disruption. This fracture occurs when the bone bends and cracks on one side, resembling a green twig that has been bent. In the case of the radius, this injury can occur due to falls, sports injuries, or accidents. The shaft of the radius is the long, cylindrical part of the bone, and fractures here can lead to complications such as malunion or nonunion if not properly managed. In children, the periosteum is thicker and more active, which can aid in healing but also complicate the assessment of the fracture. Treatment typically involves immobilization with a cast or splint, and in some cases, orthopedic intervention may be necessary to ensure proper alignment and healing. Complications can include compartment syndrome, particularly if swelling occurs, which may necessitate surgical intervention to relieve pressure. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in documentation of fracture type and location
  • Need for precise anatomical terminology
  • Differentiation from complete fractures and other types of radius injuries
  • Potential for associated injuries in the forearm or elbow

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type
  • Failure to specify laterality (left or right arm)
  • Misclassification of fracture severity
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on healing progress

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the fracture type, location, and treatment plan are essential. Imaging results should be included.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from falls, sports injuries, or accidents in children.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of growth plate involvement and potential for complications such as compartment syndrome.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Documentation should include age, mechanism of injury, and any associated injuries.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Commonly seen in children who present with arm pain after a fall.

Billing Considerations

Understanding of pediatric anatomy and healing processes is crucial.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.319 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for fractures, ensuring to document the specific type of fracture, laterality, and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.319 When
  • Exclude codes for complete fractures or fractures of other bones

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25600CPT Code

Application of a cast

Clinical Scenario

Used when a greenstick fracture is treated conservatively with immobilization.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include the type of fracture and the method of immobilization.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure accurate coding based on the type of fracture.

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 aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including greenstick fractures, which aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including greenstick fractures, which aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes 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 a greenstick fracture?

A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture where the bone bends and cracks on one side, commonly seen in children due to the flexibility of their bones.

How is a greenstick fracture treated?

Treatment typically involves immobilization with a cast or splint, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to ensure proper alignment.

What are the risks associated with greenstick fractures?

Risks include malunion, nonunion, and compartment syndrome, particularly if swelling occurs after the injury.