2025 ICD-10-CM code S52.332B

Displaced oblique fracture of the shaft of the left radius, initial encounter for an open fracture (types I or II).

Always use secondary codes from Chapter 20 (External causes of morbidity) to indicate the cause of injury unless the T-section code already includes the cause. Use additional codes for any retained foreign bodies (Z18.-). This code is for the initial encounter only. Subsequent encounters should use appropriate codes for aftercare.

Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the service provided. Consult the most up-to-date modifier guidelines.

Medical necessity for treatment will be based on the severity of the fracture, associated soft tissue injury, pain level, and functional impairment.Surgical intervention may be medically necessary for unstable fractures, open fractures, and fractures with significant displacement hindering proper healing.

Diagnosis is based on patient history, physical examination, and imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scan). Treatment may include pain management (analgesics, NSAIDs), immobilization (splint, cast), surgery (for unstable or open fractures), and physical therapy.

IMPORTANT Consider using additional codes from Chapter 20 (External causes of morbidity) to specify the cause of the injury.If a retained foreign body is present, use code(s) from the Z18.- category.

In simple words: This code describes a broken left forearm bone (radius) where the break is angled and the bone pieces are out of place.The break is open, meaning the bone is visible through a cut in the skin. This is the first time this injury is being treated.

This code signifies a displaced oblique fracture affecting the shaft of the left radius.The fracture line runs diagonally across the radius's central portion.This is an initial encounter for an open fracture, classified as type I or II according to the Gustilo classification.These types indicate fractures with anterior or posterior radial head dislocation and minimal to moderate soft tissue damage resulting from low-energy trauma. The open fracture exposes the bone through a skin tear or laceration caused by displaced fracture fragments or external injury.

Example 1: A patient presents to the emergency department after a fall from a bicycle, sustaining an open, displaced oblique fracture of the left radius. The fracture is classified as type I based on minimal soft tissue damage. , A patient involved in a low-speed motor vehicle accident experiences a displaced oblique fracture of the left radius, classified as type II.The fracture is open, with a small laceration overlying the fracture site. , During a sporting event, a patient suffers an open, displaced oblique fracture of their left radius, type I, requiring immediate surgical intervention to reduce the fracture and repair the soft tissue damage.

Detailed patient history including mechanism of injury, physical examination findings (location, alignment, and stability of fracture), radiographic imaging (X-rays, CT scan) to confirm the diagnosis and fracture classification, operative report if surgery was performed, and post-operative notes.

** This code specifically applies to open fractures classified as type I or II.Fractures classified as type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC would utilize different codes.

  • Payment Status: Active
  • Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Emergency Medicine
  • Place of Service:Emergency Room - Hospital, Office, Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center
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