Other fracture of shaft of femur
ICD-10 S72.39 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other fracture of shaft of femur.
The S72.39 code is used to classify fractures of the shaft of the femur that do not fall into more specific categories. These fractures can occur due to various mechanisms, including high-energy trauma such as motor vehicle accidents or falls, particularly in older adults. The femur, being the longest and strongest bone in the body, can sustain significant forces, leading to complex fracture patterns. Fractures of the femoral shaft may be associated with other injuries, including hip fractures and dislocations, which complicate the clinical picture. Treatment often involves orthopedic intervention, which may include surgical fixation or intramedullary nailing, depending on the fracture's location and severity. Accurate coding is essential for proper reimbursement and tracking of orthopedic trauma cases. Documentation should detail the mechanism of injury, fracture type, and any associated injuries to ensure appropriate coding and billing.
Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and notes on the mechanism of injury.
Fractures resulting from falls in elderly patients, high-energy trauma in younger patients, and post-surgical complications.
Ensure that all associated injuries are documented to support the use of S72.39.
Initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with acute trauma, often requiring immediate stabilization and imaging.
Accurate documentation of the mechanism of injury is crucial for coding and treatment planning.
Used when surgical intervention is performed for a femur shaft fracture.
Operative report detailing the procedure and any complications.
Orthopedic surgeons must ensure accurate coding based on the surgical approach.
S72.39 is used for unspecified fractures of the femur shaft, while other codes specify the location and type of fracture, such as neck or head fractures.
