Displaced intertrochanteric fracture of left femur
ICD-10 S72.142 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of displaced intertrochanteric fracture of left femur.
A displaced intertrochanteric fracture of the left femur is a type of hip fracture that occurs in the region between the femoral neck and the shaft of the femur, specifically at the intertrochanteric area. This injury is characterized by a break in the bone that has resulted in the fragments being misaligned or displaced. Such fractures are commonly seen in elderly patients due to falls, but can also occur in younger individuals as a result of high-energy trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents. The clinical presentation typically includes severe hip pain, inability to bear weight on the affected leg, and visible deformity. Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging studies, primarily X-rays, which reveal the fracture pattern and displacement. Treatment often involves surgical intervention, such as internal fixation with plates or intramedullary nails, to realign the bone fragments and stabilize the fracture. Post-operative rehabilitation is crucial for restoring mobility and function.
Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and post-operative notes are essential for accurate coding.
Common scenarios include surgical fixation of intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients and trauma cases involving younger patients.
Ensure that the documentation clearly states the type of fracture and any associated injuries to avoid coding errors.
Thorough documentation of initial assessment, imaging results, and treatment provided in the emergency setting.
Patients presenting with hip pain after a fall or trauma, requiring immediate imaging and stabilization.
Accurate coding requires clear documentation of the mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.
Used in cases where the fracture is severe and requires joint replacement.
Operative report detailing the procedure and indication for surgery.
Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for choosing arthroplasty over fixation.
S72.141 refers to a non-displaced intertrochanteric fracture, while S72.142 indicates a displaced fracture, which has different implications for treatment and coding.
