ICD-10-CM Billable Code

S52.324

Nondisplaced transverse fracture of shaft of right radius

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

A nondisplaced transverse fracture of the shaft of the right radius is a specific type of broken bone in the forearm. This injury occurs when the bone is broken straight across but the broken pieces remain aligned and haven't shifted out of place. It typically results from direct trauma or a fall and requires medical diagnosis and appropriate treatment to heal properly. Recognizing the signs and understanding the nature of this fracture can help in seeking timely medical care and ensuring proper recovery.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Falls onto an outstretched hand Direct impact or blow to the forearm Motor vehicle accidents Sports injuries involving a fall or collision Repetitive stress or overuse, though less common for transverse fractures

Key Symptoms: Sudden pain at the site of fracture Swelling and tenderness in the forearm Bruising around the affected area Decreased ability to move or rotate the wrist or arm Visible deformity or abnormal angulation (less common in nondisplaced fractures)

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis begins with a physical examination by a healthcare professional to assess swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. The key tool for confirming a fracture is radiographic imaging, usually X-rays, which will show the transverse break across the shaft of the radius. In some cases, additional imaging like CT scans might be used if the fracture is complex or unclear. The doctor will evaluate the alignment of the bone to determine if the fracture is displaced or nondisplaced.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment mainly focuses on realigning the bone and promoting healing. Since this specific fracture is nondisplaced, conservative management is often sufficient: - Immobilization with a cast or splint to keep the bone in place - Pain management with appropriate medications - Rest and elevation of the arm to reduce swelling - Monitoring recovery through follow-up X-rays to ensure proper healing In rare cases where immobilization is not enough, or if the fracture shifts out of place, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign the bones with pins, plates, or screws. Rehabilitation exercises and physical therapy might be recommended once the healing progresses to restore strength and mobility.

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 S52.324 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S52.324 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report S52.324?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Nondisplaced transverse fracture of shaft of right radius and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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