2025 ICD-10-CM code S52.332Q

Displaced oblique fracture of the shaft of the left radius, subsequent encounter for open fracture type I or II with malunion.

Use a secondary code from Chapter 20 (External causes of morbidity) to indicate the cause of the initial injury.Also, code any retained foreign body (Z18.-) if applicable.

Medical necessity is established by the presence of functional impairment or pain directly related to the malunion.The documentation should clearly link the malunion to the patient's symptoms and justify the need for further intervention.

Diagnosis and treatment is typically managed by orthopedic surgeons or other specialists in musculoskeletal injuries. Diagnosis is confirmed through physical examination and imaging studies (X-ray, CT scan). Treatment depends on the severity of the malunion and its impact on function. Options may include observation, non-surgical management (e.g., bracing, physical therapy), or surgical correction (osteotomy, bone grafting).

In simple words: This code describes a follow-up visit for a broken left forearm bone (radius) that healed crookedly. The break was originally a diagonal break across the main part of the bone, and it went through the skin.Types I and II mean there was some, but not extensive, damage to the surrounding soft tissues.

Displaced oblique fracture of the shaft of the left radius, subsequent encounter for open fracture type I or II with malunion. This refers to a break in the left radius bone where the break line runs diagonally across the shaft (the long part of the bone).It is classified as a displaced fracture, meaning the bone fragments are not aligned. This code is used for a subsequent encounter, indicating it is not the initial visit for this injury.The fracture is specified as open, meaning the bone broke through the skin. It's further classified as type I or II, likely referring to the Gustilo open fracture classification, which describes the severity of soft tissue damage. "Malunion" signifies that the fracture has healed, but in an incorrect position.

Example 1: A patient initially presented with an open, displaced oblique fracture of the left radius shaft classified as Gustilo type II. The fracture was treated, but on a subsequent visit, it's determined that the bone has healed in a malaligned position, potentially affecting function., A patient had an open fracture of their left radius several weeks ago. They are now being seen for ongoing pain and limited range of motion due to the bone healing in a non-anatomical position (malunion)., A patient who experienced a left radial shaft fracture in a car accident now has ongoing discomfort after the initial healing phase. Examination and imaging confirm the bone has not healed straight.

Documentation should include details of the initial injury, treatment provided, evidence of malunion (e.g., imaging reports, physical exam findings), and the impact on the patient's function.The Gustilo classification of the open fracture should also be documented.

  • Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Emergency Medicine
  • Place of Service:Office, On Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Off Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Inpatient Hospital
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