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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM84.750

M84.750

Billable

Atypical femoral fracture, unspecified

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/17/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 M84.750 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of atypical femoral fracture, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

An atypical femoral fracture is a specific type of fracture that occurs in the femur (thigh bone) and is characterized by its unusual location and mechanism of injury. These fractures are often associated with long-term use of bisphosphonates, medications commonly prescribed for osteoporosis and other bone density disorders. Unlike typical femoral fractures, which usually result from high-impact trauma, atypical fractures can occur with minimal or no trauma, often in patients with underlying bone density issues. The fracture typically occurs in the subtrochanteric region or diaphysis of the femur and may present with prodromal symptoms such as thigh or groin pain prior to the fracture event. Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging studies, including X-rays or MRI, which reveal the characteristic features of the fracture. Management often involves surgical intervention, such as intramedullary nailing, and addressing the underlying bone metabolism disorder to prevent future fractures. Understanding the clinical context and risk factors associated with atypical femoral fractures is crucial for accurate coding and treatment planning.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of osteoporosis and its treatment implications.
  • Differentiation from other types of femoral fractures.
  • Need for detailed documentation of fracture characteristics.
  • Potential association with medication history (e.g., bisphosphonates).

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the fracture mechanism.
  • Failure to note prior history of osteoporosis or bisphosphonate use.
  • Lack of imaging reports to support the diagnosis.
  • Misclassification of fracture type.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on fracture location, mechanism, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with low-energy fractures, particularly in older adults or those on osteoporosis medications.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all imaging studies are documented and correlate with the diagnosis.

Endocrinology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of bone density and metabolic disorders.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with osteoporosis being treated with bisphosphonates who present with atypical fractures.

Billing Considerations

Document the patient's medication history and any metabolic evaluations performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M84.750 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture type and associated conditions
  • Include any relevant history of osteoporosis or medication use
  • energy trauma unless specified as atypical

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M84.750 When
  • Exclude fractures resulting from high

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27447CPT Code

Open treatment of femoral fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for atypical femoral fractures.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the atypical nature of the fracture.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of atypical femoral fractures, improving the ability to track and manage these cases in relation to osteoporosis treatment and outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of atypical femoral fractures, improving the ability to track and manage these cases in relation to osteoporosis treatment and outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of atypical femoral fractures, improving the ability to track and manage these cases in relation to osteoporosis treatment and outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
  • •
    National Osteoporosis Foundation

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
  • •
    National Osteoporosis Foundation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of atypical femoral fractures?

Atypical femoral fractures are significant because they can occur with minimal trauma in patients with osteoporosis, often linked to long-term bisphosphonate use. Recognizing these fractures is crucial for appropriate management and prevention of future fractures.

How can I differentiate between atypical and typical femoral fractures?

Atypical femoral fractures typically occur in the subtrochanteric region or diaphysis and may present with prodromal pain. In contrast, typical fractures usually result from high-energy trauma and occur in different locations.