ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS72.02

S72.02

Billable

Fracture of epiphysis (separation) (upper) of femur

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S72.02 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of fracture of epiphysis (separation) (upper) of femur.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The S72.02 code refers to a fracture of the upper femur's epiphysis, which is a critical area for growth and development in children and adolescents. This type of fracture typically occurs due to trauma, such as falls or sports injuries, and can lead to complications if not properly diagnosed and treated. The upper femur includes the femoral head and neck, which are essential for hip joint function. Fractures in this area can result in hip dislocations, avascular necrosis, or growth disturbances. Diagnosis usually involves imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI, to assess the fracture's extent and any associated injuries. Treatment may involve orthopedic intervention, including surgical fixation or hip replacement, depending on the fracture's severity and the patient's age. Proper coding is essential for accurate billing and to ensure that the patient receives appropriate care.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between types of femoral fractures
  • Understanding the implications of epiphyseal injuries in pediatric patients
  • Variability in treatment approaches based on patient age and fracture type
  • Need for precise documentation of the injury mechanism and associated conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify the type of fracture (e.g., complete vs. incomplete)
  • Misclassification of the fracture type
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on treatment outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and follow-up notes are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical fixation of upper femur fractures in pediatric patients, management of hip dislocations.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly indicate the fracture type, treatment plan, and any complications.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Growth charts, developmental assessments, and injury history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of pediatric fractures, including non-operative treatment options.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of growth plate involvement and potential long-term effects on development.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S72.02 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture type, location, and any associated injuries
  • Include details about the mechanism of injury and treatment plan

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S72.02 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27447CPT Code

Open treatment of femoral neck fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for an upper femur fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specifics of the fracture and the surgical approach.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including epiphyseal separations, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and billing.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including epiphyseal separations, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and billing.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

billing.

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

What is the significance of coding S72.02 accurately?

Accurate coding of S72.02 is crucial for appropriate reimbursement, tracking of pediatric fractures, and ensuring that patients receive the necessary follow-up care to prevent complications.