Salter-Harris Type III physeal fracture of upper end of radius, left arm digital illustration

Salter-Harris Type III physeal fracture of upper end of radius, left arm Save

ICD-10 code: S59.132

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

Salter-Harris Type III Physeal Fracture of Upper End of Radius, Left Arm

A Salter-Harris Type III physeal fracture of the upper end of the radius is a common injury in children and adolescents. This type of fracture occurs when there is a break in the growth plate of the bone at the upper end of the radius. The growth plate is the area of the bone where new bone tissue is formed, and it is weaker than the surrounding bone tissue.

When a child falls on an outstretched hand, the upper end of the radius can be forced upwards and cause a fracture. This type of injury is more common in boys than girls and is most common in children between the ages of 10 and 14.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a Salter-Harris Type III physeal fracture of the upper end of the radius include:

  1. Pain and swelling in the wrist and arm
  2. Tenderness when touching the affected area
  3. Difficulty moving the wrist and arm
  4. The wrist may appear deformed or crooked
Treatment

Treatment for a Salter-Harris Type III physeal fracture of the upper end of the radius usually involves immobilizing the arm in a cast or brace. The goal is to keep the bone in place while it heals. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the bone and stabilize it with pins or screws.

The length of time it takes for the bone to heal depends on the severity of the fracture. Most fractures take between 4-8 weeks to heal. During this time, it is important to keep the arm immobilized and to avoid any activities that may put stress on the affected area.

Prevention

Preventing a Salter-Harris Type III physeal fracture of the upper end of the radius involves taking steps to reduce the risk of falls and accidents. This includes:

  • Wearing proper protective gear when playing sports or riding a bike
  • Ensuring that playground equipment is safe and well-maintained
  • Teaching children how to fall safely
  • Supervising children during play and sports activities

By taking these steps, parents and caregivers can help reduce the risk of injury and keep children safe and healthy.

Diagnosis Codes for Salter-Harris Type III physeal fracture of upper end of radius, left arm | S59.132

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