S52.321 Displaced transverse fracture of shaft of right radius

Name of the Condition

Displaced transverse fracture of shaft of right radius

Summary

A displaced transverse fracture of the shaft of the right radius is a break in the long, outer bone of the forearm (radius) that occurs horizontally, with the broken bone fragments misaligned. This injury typically results from trauma and may affect arm function depending on the degree of displacement and associated soft tissue damage.

Causes

This fracture commonly occurs due to direct trauma, such as falls onto an outstretched arm, direct blows to the forearm, or accidents involving twisting forces at the wrist or elbow. High-impact events like motor vehicle collisions or sports injuries can also cause the bone to break.

Risk Factors

• Participation in contact sports or activities with a high risk of falls
• Osteoporosis or weakened bone density
• Advanced age, which increases fracture susceptibility
• Previous forearm or wrist injuries
• Occupations or hobbies involving repetitive stress or heavy lifting

Symptoms

• Sudden, severe pain at the fracture site
• Swelling, bruising, or deformity of the forearm
• Inability to move the wrist or forearm
• Visible bone protrusion through the skin (in open fractures)
• Numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves a physical examination to assess pain, swelling, and deformity, followed by imaging tests like X-rays to confirm the fracture type and displacement. Additional imaging, such as CT scans, may be used to evaluate complex fractures or joint involvement.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the fracture's severity and displacement. Options include closed reduction (manually realigning the bone) with casting or splinting, or surgical intervention with internal fixation (plates, screws) for unstable fractures. Pain management and physical therapy are often part of recovery.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

Prognosis is generally favorable with proper treatment, though recovery time varies. Follow-up appointments monitor healing through imaging and assess functional recovery. Physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength and mobility.

Complications

Potential complications include nonunion (failure to heal), malunion (improper healing), nerve or blood vessel damage, infection (if open fracture), and long-term stiffness or arthritis in the wrist or elbow.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Use protective gear during high-risk activities (e.g., sports)
• Maintain bone health through diet and exercise to reduce osteoporosis risk
• Avoid falls by modifying home environments (e.g., removing tripping hazards)
• Practice proper lifting techniques to minimize forearm stress

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain, visible deformity, inability to move the arm, or signs of infection (e.g., fever, redness) after an injury. Numbness, tingling, or coldness in the hand may indicate nerve or vascular damage requiring urgent care.

Tips for Medical Coders

Document the fracture's displacement, location (right radius), and transverse pattern clearly. Note whether the fracture is open or closed, as this impacts coding. Ensure clinical documentation supports the specific details of the fracture to align with the ICD-10-CM code S52.321.