ICD 10 CM S42.311A | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S42.311A describes an incomplete fracture, known as a greenstick fracture, of the shaft of the humerus in the right arm, which typically occurs in children and involves one side of the bone being bent while the opposite side is broken, resulting from sudden or blunt trauma such as a motor vehicle accident, sports activities, or a fall on an outstretched arm, and this code is used for the initial encounter of a closed fracture where the bone does not protrude through the skin.

Official Description Of S42.311A

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S42.311A as:

When To Use S42.311A

The diagnosis describes by the ICD 10 CM code S42.311A is a greenstick fracture, which occurs when the bone partially breaks but does not completely fracture. This type of fracture typically occurs in children whose bones are still developing and are more pliable. However, it can also occur in adults, particularly those who participate in high-impact activities or sports.

One of the main symptoms of a greenstick fracture is pain at the affected site, along with swelling, bruising, and deformity. Some people may experience weakness or stiffness in the affected area, along with tenderness, muscle spasm, and numbness or tingling, which can be indicative of nerve damage. Another common symptom is a restriction of motion, which can make it difficult to move the affected limb or joint, depending on the location of the fracture.

To diagnose a greenstick fracture, healthcare providers typically rely on a combination of the patient’s personal history of trauma and a physical examination to assess the wound, nerves, or blood supply. They may also use imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to determine the extent of damage, as well as nerve conduction studies and laboratory examinations as appropriate.

Once the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment options can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Medications may be prescribed to manage pain, inflammation, and reduce the risk of blood clots. This can include analgesics, corticosteroids, muscle relaxants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, among others.

In addition, healthcare professionals may recommend calcium and vitamin D supplements to improve bone strength, along with a splint, brace, or soft cast to immobilize the affected limb and prevent further damage while promoting healing. Rest is also crucial during the recovery process, along with the application of ice, compression, and elevation of the affected area to reduce swelling.

Depending on the severity of the fracture and the patient’s overall health, physical therapy may also be recommended to improve the range of motion, flexibility, and muscle strength. This can be particularly important for children whose bones are still developing and may benefit from specialized exercises to promote healing and reduce the risk of future injuries.

In some cases, reduction of the fracture may also be necessary, either via closed reduction or surgical open reduction and internal fixation as appropriate. This can involve realigning the broken bone fragments to promote healing and reduce the risk of long-term complications such as deformity or joint stiffness.

Overall, a greenstick fracture can be a painful and debilitating injury, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, most people are able to make a full recovery and regain normal function. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you suspect a fracture, as early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and a faster return to normal activities.