Unspecified fracture of lower end of unspecified femur
ICD-10 S72.409 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified fracture of lower end of unspecified femur.
The S72.409 code is used to classify an unspecified fracture at the lower end of the femur, which is a critical area for mobility and weight-bearing. This type of fracture can occur due to various mechanisms, including falls, direct trauma, or pathological conditions such as osteoporosis. The lower end of the femur is particularly susceptible to fractures in elderly populations, often resulting from low-energy falls. Clinically, these fractures may present with pain, swelling, and inability to bear weight on the affected leg. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans to confirm the fracture and assess for any associated injuries, such as dislocations or ligament tears. Treatment may vary from conservative management with immobilization to surgical intervention, depending on the fracture's complexity and the patient's overall health status. Understanding the nuances of this code is essential for accurate billing and ensuring appropriate care pathways are followed.
Detailed operative notes, imaging results, and pre-operative assessments are crucial.
Fractures resulting from falls in elderly patients, sports injuries in younger populations.
Ensure clear documentation of fracture type and treatment plan to support coding.
Thorough documentation of patient history, mechanism of injury, and initial assessment findings.
Patients presenting with acute limb pain after trauma, requiring immediate imaging.
Accurate coding is essential for proper triage and treatment planning.
Used when surgical intervention is required for a lower end femur fracture.
Operative report detailing the procedure performed and any implants used.
Orthopedic surgeons must ensure that the procedure aligns with the diagnosis.
Use S72.409 when a patient has a fracture at the lower end of the femur, and the specific type of fracture is not documented. Ensure that the documentation supports the use of this unspecified code.
