ICD-10: S52.62

The ICD-10 code S52.62 specifically refers to a torus fracture of the lower end of the ulna. This type of fracture is commonly seen in pediatric patients and is characterized by a specific mechanism of injury and distinct clinical features.

Clinical Description

Definition of Torus Fracture

A torus fracture, also known as a buckle fracture, is a type of incomplete fracture that occurs when one side of the bone buckles upon itself without breaking the other side. This injury is most prevalent in children due to the flexibility of their bones, which are still developing and have a higher capacity to deform under stress compared to adult bones.

Location and Mechanism of Injury

The ulna is one of the two long bones in the forearm, located on the side opposite the thumb. The lower end of the ulna refers to the distal portion near the wrist. Torus fractures in this area typically result from a fall onto an outstretched hand (FOOSH injury), where the impact causes the bone to compress and buckle rather than break completely.

Symptoms

Patients with a torus fracture of the lower end of the ulna may present with:
- Localized pain: Tenderness at the site of the fracture.
- Swelling: Mild to moderate swelling around the wrist.
- Limited range of motion: Difficulty moving the wrist or hand due to pain.
- Deformity: In some cases, there may be a visible deformity, although this is less common with torus fractures compared to complete fractures.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of:
- Clinical examination: Assessing symptoms and physical findings.
- Imaging studies: X-rays are the primary imaging modality used to confirm the presence of a torus fracture. The X-ray may show a characteristic bulging of the cortex on one side of the bone.

Treatment

The management of a torus fracture generally involves:
- Immobilization: The affected wrist may be immobilized using a splint or cast to allow for proper healing.
- Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended to alleviate discomfort.
- Follow-up care: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure proper recovery.

Prognosis

The prognosis for a torus fracture of the lower end of the ulna is typically excellent, with most children experiencing complete recovery without long-term complications. Healing usually occurs within a few weeks, and full function is often restored.

Conclusion

In summary, the ICD-10 code S52.62 denotes a torus fracture of the lower end of the ulna, a common injury in children characterized by a buckle in the bone rather than a complete break. Understanding the clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment options is essential for effective management and recovery from this type of fracture.

Torus fractures, also known as buckle fractures, are common injuries, particularly in pediatric populations. The ICD-10 code S52.62 specifically refers to a torus fracture of the lower end of the ulna. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with this type of fracture is essential for accurate diagnosis and management.

Clinical Presentation

Definition and Mechanism of Injury

A torus fracture is characterized by a compression injury that results in a bulging of the bone cortex without a complete fracture. This type of fracture typically occurs in children due to their softer, more pliable bones. The lower end of the ulna is often involved in falls or direct trauma, particularly when a child attempts to break a fall with their outstretched hand.

Common Patient Characteristics

• Age: Most frequently seen in children aged 5 to 10 years, as their bones are still developing and are more susceptible to this type of injury.
• Gender: There is no significant gender predisposition, although some studies suggest boys may be slightly more prone to fractures due to higher activity levels.
• Activity Level: Increased physical activity, especially in sports or play, can lead to a higher incidence of falls and subsequent fractures.

Signs and Symptoms

Physical Examination Findings

• Swelling: Localized swelling around the wrist or distal forearm, particularly on the ulnar side.
• Tenderness: Palpation of the lower end of the ulna typically elicits tenderness, especially over the fracture site.
• Deformity: There may be a subtle deformity, but it is often less pronounced than in complete fractures.
• Range of Motion: Limited range of motion in the wrist and forearm due to pain and swelling.

Patient-Reported Symptoms

• Pain: Patients often report pain at the site of the fracture, which may be exacerbated by movement or pressure.
• Bruising: Ecchymosis may develop over time, although it is not always present immediately after the injury.
• Functional Impairment: Difficulty using the affected arm for daily activities, such as lifting objects or participating in sports.

Diagnostic Considerations

Imaging

• X-rays: Standard radiographs are typically used to confirm the diagnosis. In the case of a torus fracture, X-rays may show a characteristic bulging of the cortex without a complete break.
• Differential Diagnosis: It is important to differentiate torus fractures from other types of fractures, such as greenstick fractures or complete fractures, which may require different management strategies.

Conclusion

Torus fractures of the lower end of the ulna (ICD-10 code S52.62) are common injuries in children, characterized by specific clinical presentations, signs, and symptoms. Recognizing the typical patient characteristics and understanding the mechanism of injury can aid healthcare providers in making accurate diagnoses and providing appropriate treatment. Early intervention and proper management are crucial to ensure optimal recovery and prevent complications.

The ICD-10 code S52.62 specifically refers to a torus fracture of the lower end of the ulna. This type of fracture is commonly associated with pediatric patients and is characterized by a compression fracture that causes the bone to bulge or buckle without breaking completely. Below are alternative names and related terms that can be associated with this specific fracture type:

Alternative Names

1. Buckle Fracture: This term is often used interchangeably with torus fracture, particularly in pediatric cases, as it describes the same mechanism of injury where the bone bends and bulges.
2. Greenstick Fracture: While not identical, this term is related as it describes a fracture that occurs on one side of the bone, causing it to bend on the other side, similar to how a young green twig breaks.
3. Incomplete Fracture: This term can also apply, as torus fractures do not result in a complete break of the bone.

Related Terms

1. Distal Ulna Fracture: This term refers to fractures occurring at the distal end of the ulna, which includes torus fractures.
2. Pediatric Fracture: Since torus fractures are more common in children due to their developing bones, this term is often used in discussions about such injuries.
3. Compression Fracture: This term describes the mechanism of injury that leads to a torus fracture, where the bone is compressed and deformed.
4. Forearm Fracture: This broader term encompasses fractures of both the radius and ulna in the forearm, including torus fractures.

Clinical Context

Torus fractures are typically diagnosed through clinical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays, which reveal the characteristic buckling of the bone. Treatment usually involves immobilization with a cast or splint, allowing the bone to heal properly without surgical intervention.

Understanding these alternative names and related terms can be beneficial for healthcare professionals when discussing diagnoses, treatment plans, and coding for medical records.

The ICD-10 code S52.62 refers specifically to a torus fracture of the lower end of the ulna, commonly known as a buckle fracture. This type of fracture is particularly prevalent in pediatric populations due to the unique characteristics of their bone structure. Below, we will explore the criteria used for diagnosing this specific fracture type.

Understanding Torus Fractures

Definition

A torus fracture is characterized by a compression injury that results in a bulging of the bone cortex without a complete break. This type of fracture typically occurs in the long bones of children, including the ulna, due to their softer and more pliable bone structure compared to adults[1].

Mechanism of Injury

Torus fractures often result from a fall onto an outstretched hand (FOOSH injury), where the force of the impact compresses the bone. The lower end of the ulna is particularly susceptible to such injuries, especially in children who may not have fully developed bone density[2].

Diagnostic Criteria

Clinical Evaluation

1. History of Trauma: A detailed history of the mechanism of injury is crucial. The clinician will inquire about the circumstances surrounding the injury, such as falls or direct impacts[3].

2. Physical Examination: The examination will focus on:
   - Swelling and Tenderness: Localized swelling and tenderness over the distal ulna.
   - Range of Motion: Assessment of wrist and forearm movement to identify pain or limitations[4].

Imaging Studies

1. X-rays: The primary diagnostic tool for confirming a torus fracture is an X-ray. Key features include:
   - Cortical Bulging: The X-ray will typically show a bulging of the cortex without a complete fracture line.
   - Location: The fracture is specifically located at the lower end of the ulna, which can be confirmed through proper imaging techniques[5].

2. Additional Imaging: In some cases, if the X-ray findings are inconclusive, further imaging such as MRI or CT scans may be utilized to assess the extent of the injury and rule out associated injuries[6].

Differential Diagnosis

It is essential to differentiate a torus fracture from other types of fractures, such as:
- Greenstick Fractures: Incomplete fractures that involve a break on one side of the bone.
- Complete Fractures: These show a clear fracture line and may require different management strategies[7].

Conclusion

The diagnosis of a torus fracture of the lower end of the ulna (ICD-10 code S52.62) relies on a combination of clinical history, physical examination, and imaging studies. Understanding the mechanism of injury and recognizing the characteristic features on X-rays are crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. Given the commonality of this injury in children, timely diagnosis can lead to effective treatment and a favorable prognosis.

Torus fractures, also known as buckle fractures, are common injuries in children, particularly in the forearm. The ICD-10 code S52.62 specifically refers to a torus fracture of the lower end of the ulna. Understanding the standard treatment approaches for this type of fracture is essential for effective management and recovery.

Overview of Torus Fractures

Torus fractures occur when one side of the bone buckles without breaking the other side, typically due to a fall or direct impact. They are most prevalent in pediatric patients due to the flexibility of their bones, which are still developing. The lower end of the ulna is a frequent site for such injuries, often associated with wrist injuries.

Standard Treatment Approaches

1. Initial Assessment and Diagnosis

• Clinical Evaluation: A thorough physical examination is conducted to assess pain, swelling, and range of motion.
• Imaging: X-rays are typically performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out more severe fractures. In some cases, additional imaging may be necessary if the fracture is not clearly visible.

2. Non-Surgical Management

• Immobilization: The primary treatment for a torus fracture is immobilization. A splint or cast is usually applied to the affected area to prevent movement and allow for healing. The immobilization period typically lasts for 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the severity of the fracture and the patient's age.
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may be recommended to manage pain and inflammation.

3. Follow-Up Care

• Regular Monitoring: Follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the healing process. X-rays may be repeated to ensure proper alignment and healing of the fracture.
• Rehabilitation: Once the cast or splint is removed, physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength and range of motion. Gentle exercises can help in regaining function in the wrist and forearm.

4. Surgical Intervention (Rare)

• While most torus fractures can be managed non-surgically, surgical intervention may be considered in rare cases where there is significant displacement or if the fracture does not heal properly. This would typically involve realigning the bone and stabilizing it with hardware.

Conclusion

Torus fractures of the lower end of the ulna (ICD-10 code S52.62) are generally treated effectively with conservative measures, including immobilization and pain management. Regular follow-up is crucial to ensure proper healing and recovery. In most cases, children can return to normal activities within a few weeks, making this type of fracture one of the more manageable injuries in pediatric orthopedics. If you have further questions or need more specific information regarding treatment protocols, consulting a pediatric orthopedic specialist is advisable.