Nondisplaced oblique fracture of shaft of unspecified femur
ICD-10 S72.336 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nondisplaced oblique fracture of shaft of unspecified femur.
A nondisplaced oblique fracture of the shaft of the femur is characterized by a fracture line that runs diagonally across the bone, but the bone fragments remain in alignment. This type of fracture can occur due to various mechanisms, including falls, direct trauma, or sports injuries. It is essential to differentiate this type of fracture from displaced fractures, where the bone ends are not aligned. The shaft of the femur is the long, straight portion of the femur, and injuries here can significantly impact mobility and function. Treatment typically involves conservative management, including immobilization and rehabilitation, although surgical intervention may be necessary in certain cases. Accurate diagnosis and coding are crucial for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement.
Detailed imaging reports, surgical notes, and follow-up assessments are necessary to support the diagnosis and treatment plan.
Fractures resulting from falls in elderly patients, sports injuries in younger patients, and trauma from vehicular accidents.
Ensure that the documentation clearly states the type of fracture and any associated injuries to avoid coding errors.
Initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment provided in the emergency department must be documented thoroughly.
Patients presenting with acute pain and swelling after trauma, requiring immediate imaging and evaluation.
Accurate coding is essential for proper reimbursement and to reflect the severity of the injury.
Used when surgical intervention is required for stabilization of the fracture.
Operative reports detailing the procedure, indications, and post-operative care.
Orthopedic surgeons must ensure that the procedure aligns with the diagnosis for accurate billing.
A nondisplaced fracture means that the bone cracks but maintains its proper alignment, while a displaced fracture means that the bone has broken into two or more parts and those parts are misaligned.
