ICD 10 CM S32.052S | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S32.052S describes a specific type of injury to the lumbar spine resulting from severe high impact trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident or fall from a height, which causes a break in a bony segment of the spine leading to neurologic injury and spinal canal compromise, ultimately resulting in the displacement, angulation, or subluxation of the affected vertebra, and is used to indicate a subsequent encounter for a sequela, or a condition resulting from the initial fracture.

Official Description Of S32.052S

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S32.052S as:

When To Use S32.052S

The diagnosis describes by ICD-10 CM S32.052S refers to an unstable burst fracture of the fifth lumbar vertebra. This condition can result in moderate to severe pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. It can also cause numbness, tingling, and nerve injury that may lead to partial or complete paralysis. Additionally, there is a risk of brain injury with temporary loss of consciousness.

When a patient presents with these symptoms, healthcare providers will conduct a thorough evaluation. This includes taking the patient’s medical history, performing a physical examination, and administering neurological tests to evaluate muscle strength, sensation, and reflexes. Providers may also use imaging techniques such as X-rays, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging to assess the extent of the injury.

Based on the results of these tests, healthcare providers diagnose the condition as an unstable burst fracture of the fifth lumbar vertebra. It is important to accurately diagnose the condition to determine the appropriate treatment options.

Treatment options for an unstable burst fracture of the fifth lumbar vertebra typically require immediate stabilization of the spine. This stabilization almost always requires surgery to fuse the vertebrae and restore alignment. Following the surgery, patients require rest, physical therapy, and medications such as steroids and analgesics.

It is crucial to properly document the diagnosis using the appropriate ICD-10-CM code. This ensures that healthcare providers accurately describe the patient’s condition, and it also helps with medical billing and insurance reimbursement. The ICD-10-CM S32.052S code for an unstable burst fracture of the fifth lumbar vertebra is specific, and it accurately represents the patient’s condition.

In summary, an unstable burst fracture of the fifth lumbar vertebra can cause severe symptoms and requires immediate medical attention. A thorough evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and appropriate treatment options can lead to better outcomes for patients. Proper documentation of the diagnosis using the appropriate ICD-10-CM code is also essential. Healthcare providers must stay current with coding guidelines and regulations to ensure accurate and appropriate coding.