ICD 10 CM S52.235D | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S52.235D describes a specific type of fracture in the left ulna, where the bone is broken diagonally across the central portion without any fragments separating, typically caused by a combination of bending and twisting forces resulting from sudden blunt trauma, and this code is used for subsequent encounters when the fracture is closed and healing normally without any exposure through a tear or laceration of the skin.

Official Description Of S52.235D

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S52.235D as:

When To Use S52.235D

The diagnosis describes by the ICD 10 CM S52.235D code is a nondisplaced oblique fracture of the shaft of the left ulna. This type of fracture can cause various symptoms such as pain and swelling in the affected area, warmth, bruising or redness, difficulty moving the arm, bleeding in the case of open fractures, and numbness or tingling if the nerve supply is damaged.

To diagnose this condition, healthcare providers typically perform a physical examination and rely on the patient’s medical history. Imaging techniques such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computerized tomography (CT) scans may also be used to assess more complex fractures that can potentially injure nerves or blood vessels.

Treatment options for this type of injury vary depending on the severity of the fracture. Stable and closed fractures may not require surgery, but unstable fractures may require fixation. Open fractures require surgical intervention to close the wound. Other treatment options include the application of ice packs, a splint or cast to restrict limb movement, medication for pain relief, and exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion of the affected arm.

It is important to note that time plays a crucial role in the healing process of this injury. In some cases, the patient may need to wear a cast or splint for several weeks to allow the bone to heal. During this time, it is essential to follow the doctor’s recommended treatment plan carefully, and the patient should attend all follow-up appointments to ensure that the healing process is going as expected.

Complications can arise from a nondisplaced oblique fracture of the shaft of the left ulna, such as the development of scar tissue, decreased range of motion in the affected limb, and chronic pain. For this reason, it is essential to receive proper medical attention from a qualified healthcare provider if you suspect you have experienced this type of injury.

In summary, the ICD 10 CM S52.235D diagnosis code describes a nondisplaced oblique fracture of the shaft of the left ulna that requires timely medical attention. Treatment options vary according to the severity of the fracture, and patients must follow the recommended treatment plan carefully to achieve the most positive outcome possible. Understanding the risks and possible complications associated with this injury is essential to ensure appropriate care and successful recovery.