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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS72.066

S72.066

Billable

Nondisplaced articular fracture of head of unspecified femur

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S72.066 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nondisplaced articular fracture of head of unspecified femur.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A nondisplaced articular fracture of the head of the femur refers to a fracture that occurs at the uppermost part of the femur, where it articulates with the acetabulum of the pelvis. This type of fracture is characterized by the absence of displacement, meaning the bone fragments remain in their normal anatomical position. Such fractures are often associated with low-energy trauma, such as falls, particularly in older adults with osteoporotic bones. Clinical presentation may include hip pain, limited range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI, which can reveal the fracture line and assess for any associated injuries. Treatment may vary from conservative management, including rest and physical therapy, to surgical intervention, depending on the patient's age, activity level, and overall health. Understanding the nuances of this fracture type is crucial for appropriate management and coding, as it can significantly impact patient outcomes and healthcare costs.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between displaced and nondisplaced fractures
  • Understanding the anatomical terminology related to the femur
  • Identifying associated injuries or complications
  • Variability in clinical presentation among different patient populations

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and displacement status
  • Failure to document associated injuries or comorbidities
  • Misinterpretation of imaging results
  • Inconsistent coding practices across different providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes, imaging reports, and follow-up assessments are essential for accurate coding.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical repair of nondisplaced femoral head fractures, management of hip fractures in elderly patients.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant imaging and clinical findings are documented to support the diagnosis and treatment plan.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive evaluations, treatment plans, and progress notes are necessary for coding rehabilitation services.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following hip fracture surgery, management of pain and mobility issues post-fracture.

Billing Considerations

Document functional limitations and goals to support the need for therapy services.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S72.066 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 provided

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S72.066 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27130CPT Code

Total hip arthroplasty

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is required for nondisplaced fractures that do not heal properly.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, indications, and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgery versus conservative management.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S72.066 provides a clear distinction between nondisplaced and displaced fractures, which is critical for treatment planning and outcome tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S72.066 provides a clear distinction between nondisplaced and displaced fractures, which is critical for treatment planning and outcome tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S72.066 provides a clear distinction between nondisplaced and displaced fractures, which is critical for treatment planning and outcome tracking.

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 difference between a displaced and nondisplaced fracture?

A displaced fracture involves a separation of the bone fragments, while a nondisplaced fracture means the fragments remain in their normal anatomical position.