ICD 10 CM S52.189D | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S52.189D describes a specific type of fracture that occurs in the upper end of the radius, which is the larger of the two forearm bones located just below its connection with the humerus or upper arm bone, and is caused by sudden or direct blow to the elbow, motor vehicle accidents, sports activities, or falls on outstretched hands, and although the provider does not specify whether the right or left radius is affected, this code applies to a subsequent encounter for a closed, normally healing fracture that is not exposed through a tear or laceration of the skin and is not represented by another code in this category.

Official Description Of S52.189D

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S52.189D as:

Clinical Information

The diagnosis describes by the ICD 10 CM code S52.189D is an injury to the upper end of an unspecified radius bone that results in various symptoms. These symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty moving the elbow, deformity, limited range of motion, and numbness and tingling at the affected site due to injury of blood vessels and nerves.

Providers rely on the patient’s history and physical examination to diagnose the condition accurately. Additionally, imaging techniques, such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and bone scans, may be used to assess the severity of the injury.

The severity of the fracture determines the appropriate course of treatment for the patient. Stable and closed fractures that are not too severe may not require surgery. In these cases, conservative treatment options like application of an ice pack, a splint or cast to restrict limb movement, and medications like analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pain may be enough.

However, if the fracture is unstable, it requires fixation with surgical methods. On the other hand, if the fracture is an open one, it usually requires surgery to close the wound. In such cases, the orthopedic surgeon decides which specific surgical method to use. During surgery, the orthopedic surgeon may use plates, screws, or pins to repair the fracture.

While treatment is essential for the fracture, recovery is equally important. Rehabilitation usually involves exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion of the arm. Proper rehabilitation also assists with the reduction of stiffness, and the avoidance of potential re-injuries.

In general, the treatment of a fracture injury to the upper end of an unspecified radius bone concludes with addressing not only the injury but also the effect the injury can have on the arm’s functionality. Proper diagnosis and an appropriate course of treatment that meets the severity of the injury can help patients recover and get back to their normal activities.