S52.361 Displaced segmental fracture of shaft of radius, right arm

Name of the Condition

Displaced segmental fracture of shaft of radius, right arm
ICD-10 Code: S52.361

Summary

A displaced segmental fracture of the shaft of the radius involves a break in the long, outer bone of the forearm (radius) between the elbow and wrist, with the bone separated into two or more fragments and misaligned. This injury typically results from significant trauma and may impair 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, high-impact blows to the forearm, or accidents involving twisting forces at the wrist or elbow. Motor vehicle collisions, sports injuries, or forceful impacts may also cause the bone to break into multiple segments.

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 injury 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 or CT scans to confirm the fracture pattern, displacement, and involvement of surrounding structures like nerves or blood vessels.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on fracture severity and may include closed reduction (realignment without surgery) with casting, or open reduction and internal fixation (surgery) using plates, screws, or rods to stabilize the bone. Physical therapy is often recommended during recovery to restore function.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

Prognosis varies based on fracture complexity, treatment, and patient factors. Most patients recover with proper immobilization or surgery, but follow-up imaging and clinical assessments are typically needed to monitor healing and guide rehabilitation.

Complications

• Nonunion or malunion of the fracture
• Nerve or blood vessel damage
• Infection (if the fracture is open)
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the wrist or elbow
• Chronic pain or arthritis in the affected joint

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Use protective gear during high-risk activities (e.g., sports)
• Maintain bone health through adequate calcium and vitamin D intake
• Avoid falls by modifying home environments (e.g., removing tripping hazards)
• Strengthen forearm muscles through targeted exercises

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, pus) after an injury.

Tips for Medical Coders

Document the fracture as "displaced segmental" with laterality (right arm) and specify any open/closed status or associated injuries. Ensure clinical notes support the segmental nature (multiple fragments) and displacement to justify the code.