ICD 10 CM S52.023R | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S52.023R describes a specific type of injury, namely a displaced fracture of the olecranon process, which is a break or discontinuity in the back side of an unspecified ulna without extension of the fracture into the joint itself but which results in misalignment of the broken pieces of bone, and it further classifies the severity of the injury using the Gustilo classification system, with type IIIA, IIIB, and IIIC indicating fractures with increasing degrees of injury, to include dislocation, extensive soft tissue damage, three or more fragments, stripping of the periosteum, and damage to nearby nerves and vessels due to high energy trauma, and while the provider does not document whether the injury involves the left or right ulna at this subsequent encounter for an open fracture exposed through a tear or laceration of the skin caused by displaced fracture fragments or external injury when the fragments unite incompletely or in a faulty position.

Official Description Of S52.023R

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S52.023R as:

When To Use S52.023R

The diagnosis describes by the ICD 10 CM S52.023R code involves a displaced fracture of the olecranon process of an unspecified ulna; a condition that is often accompanied by various symptoms such as severe pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising over the affected site, difficulty in moving the elbow, numbness and tingling, deformity in the elbow, and possible injury to nerves and blood vessels caused by displaced bone fragments.

Medical professionals typically diagnose the condition by conducting a thorough patient history and physical examination, as well as utilizing imaging techniques such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and bone scans to help assess the severity of the injury. Additional laboratory and imaging studies may be necessary if a provider suspects nerve or blood vessel injuries.

The course of treatment for a displaced olecranon fracture can vary depending on the severity of the injury. In some cases, stable and closed fractures can be managed without surgery. However, unstable fractures require fixation to stabilize the bone, while open fractures require surgery to treat the wound.

Aside from surgical interventions, there are other treatment options that can aid patients in their recovery from a displaced olecranon fracture. These treatment options may include the application of an ice pack, which can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Additionally, a splint or cast may be utilized to restrict limb movement while the fracture heals.

Physiotherapy exercises can also play a crucial role in helping to restore flexibility, strength, and range of motion in the affected arm. Patients may be prescribed analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to help manage pain and inflammation caused by the injury.

It is important to note that a displaced olecranon fracture may cause secondary injuries due to displaced bone fragments; treatment for such injuries may also be necessary. Overall, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential in achieving a successful recovery from a displaced olecranon fracture.