Displaced oblique fracture of shaft of unsp radius, sequela

This code signifies a past injury to the shaft of the radius bone in the forearm, specifically an oblique fracture that was displaced and has since healed, but is now causing a sequela or late effect. The "unspecified radius" indicates the laterality (left or right) is not documented. The sequela could manifest as pain, deformity, limited range of motion, or other chronic issues stemming from the original fracture.

Apply this code when a patient presents with a long-term complication or residual effect directly attributable to a previously sustained, displaced oblique fracture of the radial shaft. This is appropriate for follow-up encounters where the acute fracture has healed, but the patient continues to experience issues related to the old injury. It should be used in conjunction with a code for the specific sequela being treated.

• Always code the specific sequela (e.g., chronic pain, malunion, nonunion, deformity) first, followed by this code as a secondary diagnosis.
• Ensure documentation clearly states the fracture was displaced and oblique, and that the current condition is a direct consequence of this past injury.
• If laterality (left or right radius) is documented, choose a more specific code from the S52.33- category.