Name of the Condition

• Nondisplaced Fracture of Right Ulna Styloid Process

Summary

• A nondisplaced fracture of the right ulna styloid process is a type of bone injury where there is a break in the ulna styloid process—a small bony protrusion of the ulna—without any displacement of the bone pieces. This condition typically occurs due to a fall or a direct blow to the wrist.

Causes

• The most common cause is trauma from falls onto an outstretched hand or direct impact to the wrist.

Risk Factors

• Participation in contact sports
• Osteoporosis or weak bone density
• Older age and reduced bone resilience
• Activities that increase risk of falls

Symptoms

• Pain and tenderness near the wrist
• Swelling and bruising around the site of injury
• Limited range of motion in the wrist
• Mild deformity or pain upon wrist movement

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare provider
• X-ray imaging to confirm the fracture and assess its alignment

Treatment Options

• Immobilization with a splint or cast to allow bone healing
• Pain relievers for discomfort
• Physical therapy to restore motion once healing begins
• In rare cases, surgical intervention if other structures require repair

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment, the healing process is typically straightforward, taking several weeks.
• Regular follow-up appointments may be required to track healing progress through imaging and physical assessments.

Complications

• Delayed healing or non-union of the fracture
• Decreased wrist mobility
• Chronic pain or tenderness
• Potential development of arthritis in severe cases

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Ensure adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D for bone health
• Use protective gear during sports activities
• Implement fall-prevention strategies around the home
• Engage in weight-bearing exercises to maintain bone density

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent pain or swelling that does not improve with rest
• Numbness or tingling in the fingers
• Noticeable deformity of the wrist
• Difficulty using the wrist or hand effectively

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) - orthoinfo.aaos.org
• National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines - nice.org.uk

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the ICD code S52.614A is correctly applied to indicate a nondisplaced fracture during the initial encounter for a closed fracture.
• Avoid confusing the condition with displaced fractures or fractures involving other parts of the wrist or ulna.
• Confirm the right side is specified to avoid errors in laterality coding.