Pathological fracture, right femur
ICD-10 M84.451 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pathological fracture, right femur.
A pathological fracture of the right femur occurs when the bone breaks due to an underlying disease process rather than from a traumatic injury. This type of fracture is often associated with conditions that weaken bone density, such as osteoporosis, metastatic cancer, or other metabolic bone disorders. In patients with osteoporosis, the structural integrity of the bone is compromised, leading to an increased risk of fractures even with minimal or no trauma. The right femur, being the longest and strongest bone in the body, can be particularly susceptible to fractures in individuals with significant bone density loss. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to confirm the fracture and assess the extent of the underlying bone pathology. Management may include surgical intervention, such as fixation or replacement, alongside treatment of the underlying condition to improve bone health and prevent future fractures. Understanding the etiology of the fracture is crucial for effective treatment and prevention strategies.
Detailed imaging reports, surgical notes, and history of bone health.
Patients presenting with fractures after minimal trauma, history of osteoporosis, or cancer.
Ensure documentation reflects the cause of the fracture and any prior treatments for bone health.
Comprehensive evaluation of bone density tests and metabolic assessments.
Patients with osteoporosis or metabolic bone diseases presenting with fractures.
Document any hormonal treatments or interventions that may affect bone density.
Used in cases of severe femur fractures requiring surgical intervention.
Operative reports detailing the procedure and indication for surgery.
Orthopedic surgeons must document the fracture type and underlying conditions.
A pathological fracture occurs due to underlying bone disease or weakness, while a traumatic fracture results from an external force or injury. Proper documentation is essential to differentiate between the two for accurate coding.
