2025 ICD-10-CM code S52.332H
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes - Fracture of forearm 19 Feed
Displaced oblique fracture of shaft of left radius, subsequent encounter for open fracture type I or II with delayed healing.
Medical necessity for subsequent care is established by the presence of delayed healing or complications related to the initial fracture.This may include persistent pain, limited range of motion, signs of infection, or radiographic evidence of nonunion.
Providers diagnose the condition based on the patient’s history, physical examination, and imaging techniques such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scan. Treatment options include: application of ice pack; a splint or cast to restrict limb movement; exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion of the arm; medications such as analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pain; and treatment of any secondary injuries. Unstable fractures may require surgical fixation and open fractures require surgery to close the wound.
In simple words: This code describes a follow-up visit for a broken left forearm bone (radius) that hasn't healed properly. The break is angled and the bone was sticking out through the skin at the time of injury.
Displaced oblique fracture of the shaft of the left radius, which is the larger of the two forearm bones, refers to a break line that runs diagonally across the central portion of the radius. This injury is commonly a result of a combination of bending and twisting forces, caused by sudden or blunt trauma, motor vehicle accidents, or sports activities.Type I or II refers to the Gustilo classification and indicates fractures with anterior or posterior radial head dislocation and minimal to moderate soft tissue damage due to low energy trauma. This code applies to the subsequent encounter for delayed healing of an open fracture where the bone is exposed through a tear or laceration of the skin caused by displaced fracture fragments or external injury.
Example 1: A patient presents for a follow-up appointment for a previously treated open, displaced, oblique fracture of the left radial shaft. The fracture was initially treated with external fixation, but healing has been slower than expected., A patient initially sustained an open, displaced, oblique fracture of the left radius, classified as Gustilo type II. They are now being seen for a follow-up visit due to concerns about delayed healing and possible infection., A patient who experienced a left radial shaft fracture in a motor vehicle accident is experiencing ongoing pain and limited range of motion several weeks after initial treatment. They present for a follow-up visit and imaging reveals delayed healing of the open fracture.
Documentation should include the original injury date, type of fracture, treatment provided, evidence of delayed healing (e.g., imaging reports, physical exam findings), and any complications (e.g., infection, nonunion).
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Inpatient Hospital (if further surgery is required)