ICD 10 CM S52.243A | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S52.243A describes a specific type of fracture, known as a displaced spiral fracture or torsion fracture, that occurs in the shaft of the ulna, one of the two bones in the forearm, where the break line spirals around the central portion of the bone, causing misalignment of the broken pieces of bone, and is typically caused by a traumatic event that involves twisting or rotating the forearm, with the provider not indicating whether the injury involves the left or right ulna at the initial encounter for a closed fracture that is not exposed through a tear or laceration of the skin.

Official Description Of S52.243A

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S52.243A as:

Clinical Information

The diagnosis describes by the ICD 10 CM S52.243A code represents a specific type of injury. A displaced spiral fracture of the shaft of an unspecified ulna is a serious condition that can cause severe pain, swelling, tenderness, and bruising over the affected site. Patients may also experience difficulty moving their elbow, numbness and tingling, elbow deformity, and possible injury to nerves and blood vessels by the displaced bone fragments.

Diagnosing this condition involves multiple steps. First, providers gather information about the patient’s medical history and perform a physical examination to assess the severity of the injury. They may also use imaging techniques such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and bone scans to help confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the extent of the injury. Additionally, the provider may order other laboratory or imaging studies to investigate any suspected nerve or blood vessel injuries.

Treatment options depend on the type of fracture. Stable and closed fractures may not require surgery and can often be treated with non-surgical methods. However, unstable fractures require fixation to keep the bones in place, while open fractures need surgery to close the wound. Other treatment measures may include applying ice packs to the affected area, immobilizing the arm with a splint or cast, doing exercises to improve arm flexibility, strength, and range of motion, taking analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain, and treating any secondary injuries resulting from the displaced bone fragments.

It is essential to seek proper medical care as early as possible after experiencing symptoms like severe pain, swelling or bruising in the affected area, or difficulty moving the elbow. Prompt treatment can help reduce the risk of long-term complications, such as chronic pain, loss of limb or joint function, and possible nerve or blood vessel damage, that may result from untreated injuries.

In conclusion, the ICD 10 CM S52.243A code represents a severe injury that can cause significant pain and physical limitations. Timely diagnosis and prompt medical intervention can aid in a successful recovery and reduce the risk of complications. Patients should seek medical attention immediately if they experience pain or other symptoms of a possible fracture.