2025 ICD-10-CM code S52.37
Galeazzi's fracture. Fracture of lower shaft of radius with radioulnar joint dislocation.
Medical necessity is established by the presence of a fracture and dislocation confirmed through imaging studies. The documentation should support the need for the chosen treatment approach (surgical or conservative) based on the severity of the injury and the patient's individual circumstances.
Providers diagnose Galeazzi fractures through physical examination, medical history, and imaging studies like X-rays and CT scans. Treatment typically involves surgery (ORIF) to realign and stabilize the bones, particularly in adults.Conservative treatment with closed reduction and immobilization may be used in children. Post-treatment care includes immobilization, pain management, and physiotherapy.
- Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T88)
- S52 Fracture of forearm
In simple words: A Galeazzi fracture is a break in the larger bone of your forearm (radius) near your wrist, along with a dislocation of the joint where the two forearm bones meet.It’s usually caused by falling on an outstretched hand or a direct hit to the wrist.
A Galeazzi fracture is a fracture of the distal third of the radius combined with dislocation or subluxation of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). It typically occurs due to a fall on an outstretched hand or a direct blow to the wrist.
Example 1: A 25-year-old male falls while skateboarding and sustains a fracture of the distal radius with an associated dislocation of the DRUJ, consistent with a Galeazzi fracture., A 60-year-old female falls down the stairs and presents with pain, swelling, and deformity in her forearm. Imaging reveals a Galeazzi fracture., A 10-year-old child falls from a tree and injures their forearm.Examination and X-rays confirm a Galeazzi fracture, which is managed with closed reduction and casting.
Documentation should include details of the mechanism of injury, physical exam findings (pain, swelling, deformity, limited range of motion), imaging results (X-rays, CT scan), type of treatment (surgical or conservative), and associated injuries (if any).
** In children, a Galeazzi equivalent fracture may occur, involving a fracture through the distal growth plate of the ulna instead of a DRUJ dislocation.
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Emergency Medicine, Radiology, Physical Therapy
- Place of Service:Emergency Room - Hospital, Inpatient Hospital, On Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Off Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Office, Independent Clinic