S52.322 Displaced transverse fracture of shaft of left radius

Name of the Condition

Displaced transverse fracture of shaft of left radius

Summary

A displaced transverse fracture of the shaft of the left radius is a break in the long, outer bone of the forearm (radius) that occurs horizontally across the bone's shaft, with the broken 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 in a transverse pattern.

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 studies such as X-rays to confirm the fracture type, displacement, and rule out associated injuries. Additional tests may be ordered if nerve or vascular compromise is suspected.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on fracture severity and displacement. Options include closed reduction (manual realignment) with casting, surgical fixation (plates, screws, or rods) for unstable fractures, and pain management. Physical therapy may be recommended during recovery to restore function.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

Prognosis is generally favorable with appropriate treatment, though recovery time varies. Follow-up appointments monitor healing, alignment, and functional recovery. Complications like malunion or stiffness may require additional intervention.

Complications

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

Lifestyle & Prevention

Preventive measures include using protective gear during high-risk activities, maintaining bone health through diet and exercise, and fall prevention strategies for older adults. Avoiding repetitive stress or heavy lifting may reduce risk.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek immediate medical attention for severe pain, visible deformity, inability to move the arm, numbness/tingling, or signs of infection (e.g., fever, redness, drainage) after an injury.

Tips for Medical Coders

Document the fracture's displacement, laterality (left), and whether it is open or closed. Ensure clinical notes specify the fracture type (transverse) and shaft involvement to support accurate coding.