The exact ICD-10-CM code for left distal radius nonunion, specifically for a subsequent encounter of a closed fracture, is S52.592K.
Understanding ICD-10-CM for Left Distal Radius Nonunion
The International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) is a system used worldwide by healthcare providers to classify and code diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures. Accurate coding is fundamental for various aspects of healthcare, including:
- Medical Billing and Reimbursement: Ensuring proper payment for services.
- Public Health Statistics: Tracking disease prevalence and health trends.
- Research and Epidemiology: Facilitating studies on health outcomes and interventions.
- Healthcare Management: Aiding in resource allocation and service planning.
When a fractured bone fails to heal properly, it's referred to as a nonunion. For a nonunion of the left distal radius, the specific ICD-10-CM code meticulously details the injury's location, its nature (e.g., closed or open), and the encounter type (e.g., initial, subsequent, or sequela).
The Specific ICD-10-CM Code for Left Distal Radius Nonunion
The precise code for a nonunion of the left distal radius, specifically indicating a subsequent encounter for a closed fracture, is S52.592K. This code falls under the broader category of "Fracture of forearm," designated by the S52 range.
Here's a detailed breakdown of the components of this code:
| ICD-10-CM Code | Description |
|---|---|
| S52.592K | Other fractures of lower end of left radius, subsequent encounter for closed fracture with nonunion |
Key Components and Their Meaning:
- S52: Represents a fracture of the forearm.
- S52.5: Narrows down the location to a fracture of the lower end of the radius (which includes the distal radius).
- S52.592: Specifies "other" fractures of the lower end of the *left* radius, indicating that it's not one of the more common, specified types like a Colles' or Smith's fracture, but still at the lower end.
- K: This seventh character is a crucial extension that provides additional clinical detail. In this context, 'K' signifies a "subsequent encounter for closed fracture with nonunion." This means the patient is being seen for ongoing care of a previously closed fracture that has not healed and is now considered a nonunion.
What is a Nonunion?
A nonunion is a serious complication of a bone fracture where the bone fails to heal completely after a significant period of time, typically beyond what is expected for that type of fracture (often 6-9 months). This failure to heal results in a persistent gap or excessive movement at the fracture site.Factors that can contribute to a nonunion include:
- Insufficient blood supply: The bone fragments may not receive enough blood to facilitate healing.
- Infection: Presence of infection at the fracture site can impair healing.
- Inadequate stabilization: If the bone fragments are not held stable enough, healing may be disrupted.
- Patient health factors: Conditions like diabetes, smoking, malnutrition, or certain medications can hinder bone healing.
- Severity of the initial injury: Highly comminuted (shattered) or severely displaced fractures are at higher risk.
Treatment for a radius nonunion often involves surgical intervention, such as bone grafting (transplanting bone tissue to the fracture site) or revision of the fixation method, to stimulate healing.
For more detailed information on ICD-10-CM codes and their applications, refer to authoritative coding resources like ICD10Data.com.
