ICD-10-CM Billable Code

S52.529

Torus fracture of lower end of unspecified radius

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

A torus fracture, also known as a buckle fracture, is a common type of pediatric bone injury that occurs in the lower end of the radius, one of the bones in the forearm. This kind of fracture is characterized by a bending or buckling of the bone without breaking completely through, making it less severe than other types of fractures. It usually results from a fall or trauma to the wrist, particularly in children whose bones are still developing and more flexible. Recognizing this injury is important for appropriate treatment and recovery.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Falling onto an outstretched hand Sports-related injuries involving wrist impact Accidental falls from a height, especially onto the hand or wrist Trauma during play or physical activities

Key Symptoms: Pain or tenderness in the wrist area Swelling around the lower end of the radius Difficulty moving or rotating the wrist A noticeable deformity is usually absent due to the nature of the fracture Discomfort when applying pressure to the area

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider, who will assess swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. Confirmatory tests include imaging studies such as X-rays, which reveal a buckling or bulging of the bone cortex without complete fracture lines. Because torus fractures do not usually involve a break through the bone, radiographs are essential to distinguish them from other more severe fractures.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment for a torus fracture of the lower radius generally involves immobilization to allow healing. Common approaches 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 S52.529 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S52.529 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report S52.529?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Torus fracture of lower end of unspecified radius and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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