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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS72.009

S72.009

Billable

Fracture of unspecified part of neck of unspecified femur

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/25/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S72.009 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of fracture of unspecified part of neck of unspecified femur.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The S72.009 code refers to a fracture of the neck of the femur, specifically when the exact part of the neck is not specified. This type of fracture is commonly associated with falls, particularly in elderly patients, and can lead to significant morbidity. The neck of the femur is a critical area for hip stability and mobility, and fractures here can result in complications such as avascular necrosis, nonunion, or malunion. Treatment typically involves surgical intervention, which may include internal fixation or hip replacement, depending on the fracture's characteristics and the patient's overall health. Accurate diagnosis and coding are essential for appropriate management and reimbursement, as hip fractures often require extensive rehabilitation and follow-up care. The unspecified nature of this code can complicate treatment planning and outcomes assessment, making precise documentation crucial.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Unspecified location of the fracture can lead to ambiguity in treatment planning.
  • Variability in surgical approaches based on fracture type and patient factors.
  • Potential for complications that may require additional coding.
  • Need for detailed documentation to justify the use of this code.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture specifics.
  • Failure to capture associated injuries or complications.
  • Misuse of unspecified codes when more specific codes are available.
  • Inconsistent coding practices among different providers.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and preoperative assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical repair of hip fractures, management of complications, and postoperative care.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clarity in documentation regarding the fracture type and surgical approach.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive rehabilitation plans and progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following hip fracture surgery, assessment of functional outcomes.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the patient's functional status and rehabilitation goals is essential for coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S72.009 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, fractures should be coded based on the specific site and type
  • 009 is used when the fracture's specific location is not documented
  • Coders should ensure that the documentation supports the use of this unspecified code and consider the need for more specific codes if available

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S72.009 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27130CPT Code

Total hip arthroplasty

Clinical Scenario

Used for patients with severe neck of femur fractures requiring joint replacement.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the fracture type and surgical approach.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more detailed coding of fractures, improving specificity and accuracy in billing and clinical documentation. However, the use of unspecified codes like S72.009 can lead to challenges in reimbursement and care planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more detailed coding of fractures, improving specificity and accuracy in billing and clinical documentation. However, the use of unspecified codes like S72.009 can lead to challenges in reimbursement and care planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

billing and clinical documentation. However, the use of unspecified codes like S72.009 can lead to challenges in reimbursement and care planning.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I use S72.009 instead of a more specific code?

Use S72.009 when the documentation does not specify the exact location of the femoral neck fracture. If specific details are available, opt for a more precise code.