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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM84.551

M84.551

Billable

Pathological fracture in neoplastic disease, right femur

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/17/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 M84.551 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pathological fracture in neoplastic disease, right femur.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A pathological fracture in the context of neoplastic disease refers to a fracture that occurs in a bone weakened by the presence of a tumor, either benign or malignant. In this case, the fracture is specifically located in the right femur. Neoplastic diseases can lead to changes in bone metabolism, resulting in decreased bone density and structural integrity. This can occur due to direct invasion of the bone by a tumor, or as a result of systemic effects of cancer, such as osteolytic lesions. Patients with conditions like osteoporosis or metastatic cancer are particularly at risk for such fractures. The clinical presentation may include localized pain, swelling, and decreased mobility. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to confirm the fracture and assess the extent of the underlying neoplastic process. Management may include surgical intervention, pain management, and treatment of the underlying neoplastic disease. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of neoplastic diseases and their effects on bone health.
  • Differentiation between pathological fractures and traumatic fractures.
  • Need for precise documentation of the tumor type and location.
  • Potential for multiple underlying conditions affecting bone density.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the neoplastic disease.
  • Failure to specify the location of the fracture accurately.
  • Misclassification of the fracture type (pathological vs. traumatic).
  • Lack of supporting imaging studies in the medical record.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed documentation of the type and stage of cancer, treatment history, and any imaging studies.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with metastatic breast cancer presenting with a femoral fracture.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the relationship between the neoplasm and the fracture is clearly documented.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Complete assessment of the fracture, including imaging results and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with a history of bone metastases presenting with acute pain and inability to bear weight.

Billing Considerations

Document the mechanism of injury and any prior treatments for the neoplastic disease.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M84.551 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the neoplastic disease is documented and that the fracture is classified as pathological
  • Include any relevant co
  • morbidities that may affect treatment and recovery

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M84.551 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27506CPT Code

Open treatment of femoral fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for a pathological fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes, imaging studies, and pre-operative assessments.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should document the relationship between the fracture and the neoplasm.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of pathological fractures related to neoplastic diseases, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of pathological fractures related to neoplastic diseases, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a pathological fracture and a traumatic fracture?

A pathological fracture occurs in a bone weakened by disease, such as cancer, while a traumatic fracture results from an external force or injury.