ICD-10-CM Billable Code

S52.352

Displaced comminuted fracture of shaft of radius, left arm

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

A displaced comminuted fracture of the shaft of the radius in the left arm is a significant injury where the bone in the forearm is broken into multiple pieces. This type of fracture often results from high-impact trauma, such as falls or accidents. The displacement indicates that the broken segments of bone have shifted out of their normal alignment, which may affect function and healing. Proper diagnosis and treatment are vital to restore arm strength and mobility.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Falls onto an outstretched hand or directly onto the forearm Motor vehicle accidents Sports injuries involving direct blows or falls Direct trauma from heavy objects or impact Bone weakening conditions increasing fracture risk

Key Symptoms: Intense pain in the forearm Swelling and tenderness around the fracture site Deformity or visibly misaligned arm Bruising around the affected area Difficulty rotating or moving the wrist and elbow Possible numbness or tingling if nerves are affected

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: The diagnosis is typically confirmed with a physical examination followed by imaging studies. X-rays are the primary method used to visualize the fracture, assess the displacement, and determine the extent of fragmentation. Additional imaging, such as a CT scan, might be employed for complex cases to better understand the fracture pattern. The healthcare provider evaluates the alignment of the bone pieces and checks for nerve or blood vessel involvement.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment approaches vary depending on the severity of the fracture and the degree of displacement. Common interventions include:

Reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015 require the use of ICD-10-CM codes.

Clinical Advice & FAQs

Billing Guidance

Is S52.352 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S52.352 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report S52.352?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Displaced comminuted fracture of shaft of radius, left arm and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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