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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS52.32

S52.32

Billable

Transverse fracture of shaft of radius

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S52.32 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of transverse fracture of shaft of radius.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A transverse fracture of the shaft of the radius is characterized by a break that occurs perpendicular to the long axis of the bone. This type of fracture typically results from a direct blow or a fall onto an outstretched hand, leading to significant pain, swelling, and loss of function in the affected arm. The radius is one of the two long bones in the forearm, and its shaft is the central portion between the proximal and distal ends. Such fractures can be associated with injuries to surrounding soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and nerves. In some cases, they may lead to complications such as compartment syndrome, where increased pressure within the muscle compartments can compromise blood flow and tissue viability. Treatment often involves orthopedic fixation procedures, which may include casting or surgical intervention with plates and screws to stabilize the fracture. Proper alignment and stabilization are crucial for optimal healing and restoration of function. Rehabilitation may be necessary to regain strength and mobility post-fracture.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between fracture types (transverse vs. oblique vs. spiral)
  • Identifying associated soft tissue injuries
  • Determining the need for surgical intervention versus conservative management
  • Understanding the implications of compartment syndrome

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and location
  • Failure to document associated injuries or complications
  • Misclassification of fracture type
  • Lack of clarity on treatment plan (surgical vs. non-surgical)

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes, imaging reports, and follow-up assessments are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of fracture alignment, fixation methods, 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 pain and swelling after trauma, requiring immediate evaluation.

Billing Considerations

Document mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S52.32 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding fractures, including specificity regarding the location and type of fracture
  • Ensure that documentation supports the diagnosis and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S52.32 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

25600CPT Code

Closed treatment of distal radius fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when a closed reduction is performed for a transverse fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Document the method of reduction and any follow-up care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic documentation should detail the fracture type and treatment plan.

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. S52.32 provides a clear distinction for transverse fractures, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

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. S52.32 provides a clear distinction for transverse fractures, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S52.32 provides a clear distinction for transverse fractures, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

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 S52.32 and S52.31?

S52.32 refers specifically to a transverse fracture of the shaft of the radius, while S52.31 refers to an oblique fracture of the same area. The distinction is important for treatment and coding purposes.