ICD-10-CM Billable Code

S49.029

Salter-Harris Type II physeal fracture of upper end of humerus, unspecified arm

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

A Salter-Harris Type II physeal fracture of the upper end of the humerus is a specific type of growth plate injury that affects the upper part of the upper arm bone near the shoulder. This injury commonly occurs in children and adolescents whose growth plates (epiphyseal plates) are still open. Recognized under the ICD-10 code S49.029, this fracture involves a break that passes through the growth plate and extends into the bone, potentially affecting future bone growth if not treated properly.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Falls onto the shoulder or outstretched arm Sports injuries, especially contact sports or high-impact activities Trauma from motor vehicle accidents Direct blow or trauma to the shoulder area Accidental injuries during physical activities or playground accidents

Key Symptoms: Pain around the shoulder or upper arm Swelling and tenderness in the shoulder region Limited range of motion or difficulty moving the arm Visible deformity or misalignment in some cases Difficulty in performing daily activities due to pain or weakness

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination followed by imaging tests. X-rays are the primary tool used to identify the fracture's location and type. In some cases, additional imaging such as MRI or CT scans may be recommended to assess the extent of the injury and involvement of the growth plate. Accurate diagnosis is essential for determining the appropriate treatment approach and to prevent future growth disturbances.

Treatment Protocols: Management of a Salter-Harris Type II fracture generally involves the following steps: - **Immobilization:** Use of a cast or brace to keep the arm stable while the bone heals. - **Pain management:** Use of appropriate pain relievers as recommended by healthcare providers. - **Monitoring:** Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress through repeat imaging. - **Surgical intervention:** In cases where the fracture is displaced or unstable, surgery may be necessary to realign the bones and fixate the fracture with pins or screws. - **Rehabilitation:** After immobilization, physical therapy may be advised to restore shoulder strength, flexibility, and function. The goal of treatment is to ensure proper healing, minimize complications, and support normal growth and development of the arm.

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 S49.029 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S49.029 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report S49.029?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Salter-Harris Type II physeal fracture of upper end of humerus, unspecified arm and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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