S52.501A Unspecified fracture of the lower end of right radius, initial encounter for closed fracture

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Unspecified fracture of the lower end of right radius, initial encounter for closed fracture
- Often referred to in lay terms as a "wrist fracture" or "distal radial fracture"

#### Summary
- An unspecified fracture of the lower end of the right radius occurs when there is a break in the distal part of the radius bone near the wrist. This condition involves the initial treatment of a non-open (closed) fracture without specifying the precise fracture type.

#### Causes
- Typically results from trauma such as a fall onto an outstretched hand or direct impact to the wrist.

#### Risk Factors
- Increased likelihood with activities prone to falls, such as sports.
- Higher risk in older adults due to osteoporosis.
- Greater susceptibility in postmenopausal women.

#### Symptoms
- Pain and swelling around the wrist.
- Difficulty or inability to move the wrist.
- Bruising and tenderness in the area of the fracture.
- Visible deformity in severe cases.

#### Diagnosis
- Physical examination to assess pain, swelling, and range of motion.
- Imaging tests, primarily X-rays, to determine the exact location and severity of the fracture.

#### Treatment Options
- Immobilization using a cast or splint to ensure proper bone healing for less severe fractures.
- Surgery in cases where bone fragments need realignment or stabilization using pins, plates, or screws.
- Pain management with medications such as NSAIDs.
- Physical therapy to restore movement and strength post-immobilization.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Most fractures heal well with appropriate treatment, but recovery time can range from weeks to months.
- Regular follow-up visits are needed to monitor healing through imaging and evaluation of wrist function.

#### Complications
- Improperly healed or misaligned bones leading to impaired wrist function.
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion.
- Potential for arthritis in the affected area over time.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Maintain bone health through adequate calcium and vitamin D intake.
- Engage in weight-bearing exercises to strengthen bones.
- Use protective gear during activities prone to falls or impacts, such as sports.
- Implement fall-prevention strategies, especially for older adults.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Severe pain, swelling, or deformity in the wrist following injury.
- Inability to move the wrist or significant numbness and tingling.

#### Additional Resources
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) [website](https://www.aaos.org)
- National Osteoporosis Foundation [website](https://www.nof.org)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure specificity in documentation; capture details of initial encounter and closed fracture.
- Confirm the fracture location and laterality are correctly recorded.
- Avoid using unspecified codes if more specific details are available to enhance coding accuracy.

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