Injury to radial nerve

This code signifies damage to the radial nerve, which is a major peripheral nerve in the upper limb responsible for motor function of the triceps and wrist/finger extensors, as well as sensory innervation to parts of the hand. Injuries can range from mild neuropraxia (temporary stunning) to severe neurotmesis (complete transection), leading to varying degrees of motor weakness, sensory loss, and characteristic "wrist drop."

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states an injury to the radial nerve, such as from trauma (e.g., fracture, laceration, compression), iatrogenic causes, or prolonged pressure. Supporting documentation should detail the mechanism of injury and clinical findings consistent with radial nerve dysfunction.

• Differentiate from other upper extremity nerve injuries; ensure documentation specifies the radial nerve.
• Consider an additional E code to identify the external cause of the injury, if known and documented.
• This code represents the injury to the nerve; if a late effect (e.g., permanent paralysis) is being treated, a different code from the 354 series would be more appropriate.