ICD 10 CM S52.002H | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S52.002H describes a fracture of the upper end of the ulna, which is the smaller of the two forearm bones, that occurs at the elbow where it joins the humerus, or upper arm bone, and radius, the other forearm bone, due to trauma or overuse, and is classified as type I or II based on the Gustilo classification, indicating fractures with anterior or posterior radial head dislocation and minimal to moderate soft tissue damage due to low energy trauma, but does not specify the type of fracture, such as coronoid process, olecranon process, or torus fracture, of the left ulna at this subsequent encounter for delayed healing of an open fracture exposed through a tear or laceration of the skin caused by displaced fracture fragments or external injury.

Official Description Of S52.002H

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S52.002H as:

When To Use S52.002H

The diagnosis describes by ICD 10 CM S52.002H refers to an unspecified fracture of the upper end of the left ulna. This type of injury can result in several symptoms, such as pain and swelling, bruising, difficulty moving the elbow, deformity in the elbow, and limited range of motion. Additionally, patients may experience numbness and tingling at the affected site due to injury to the blood vessels and nerves, and often involves dislocation of the radial head. It is crucial to note that an accurate and timely diagnosis of this condition can help ensure appropriate treatment and prevent further complications.

Providers typically diagnose an unspecified fracture of the upper end of the left ulna based on the patient’s history and physical examination. In some cases, they may use advanced imaging techniques such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), or bone scans to assess the severity of the injury further. By using these diagnostic tools, physicians can determine the extent of the damage and develop a personalized treatment plan based on the patient’s specific needs.

The severity of the injury will determine the type of treatment needed. For instance, stable and closed fractures may not require surgery, while unstable fractures require fixation, and open fractures require surgery to close the wound. Other treatment options may include the application of an ice pack to reduce swelling, a splint or cast to restrict limb movement, and exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion of the arm. Additionally, medications such as analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help manage pain and discomfort associated with the injury. Finally, providers may also address any secondary injuries that may arise during treatment.

It is essential to monitor patients after treatment to ensure that the bone is healing correctly and that there are no complications. Examples of complications that may arise during the healing process include non-union or improper healing, which may require additional treatments such as surgery, and infection, which may require antibiotics. Therefore, patients must closely follow their provider’s instructions after treatment, attend follow-up appointments, and report any new or worsening symptoms immediately.

In conclusion, an unspecified fracture of the upper end of the left ulna can result in several symptoms and requires an accurate and timely diagnosis to ensure appropriate treatment and prevent further complications. Physicians use a combination of physical examination and advanced imaging techniques to diagnose the condition and develop a personalized treatment plan based on the patient’s specific needs. Treatment may include immobilization, medication, and exercises. Finally, patients must closely follow their provider’s instructions after treatment, attend follow-up appointments, and report any new or worsening symptoms immediately to minimize the risk of complications.