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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS72.042

S72.042

Billable

Displaced fracture of base of neck of left femur

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/25/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S72.042 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of displaced fracture of base of neck of left femur.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A displaced fracture of the base of the neck of the left femur is a significant orthopedic injury often resulting from high-energy trauma, such as falls or vehicular accidents. This type of fracture occurs at the proximal femur, just below the femoral head, and can lead to complications such as avascular necrosis, nonunion, or malunion if not treated appropriately. The displacement refers to the misalignment of the fracture fragments, which can complicate surgical intervention and recovery. Patients typically present with severe hip pain, inability to bear weight, and may exhibit limb shortening or external rotation of the affected leg. Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging studies, including X-rays or MRI, which help assess the extent of the fracture and any associated injuries. Treatment often involves surgical intervention, such as internal fixation or hip replacement, depending on the patient's age, activity level, and overall health. Rehabilitation is crucial for restoring function and mobility post-surgery.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires precise documentation of fracture type and location.
  • Differentiation between displaced and non-displaced fractures.
  • Potential for multiple associated injuries in trauma cases.
  • Variability in treatment approaches based on patient demographics.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture displacement.
  • Failure to specify laterality (left vs. right).
  • Lack of imaging reports to support the diagnosis.
  • Incorrect coding of associated injuries.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and post-operative notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical fixation of displaced femoral neck fractures, management of complications like nonunion.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of fracture type, displacement, and surgical approach.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment notes, imaging results, and initial treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial evaluation and stabilization of patients with hip fractures.

Billing Considerations

Document mechanism of injury and any associated injuries to support coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S72.042 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding fractures, ensuring accurate documentation of laterality, displacement, and specific anatomical details
  • Include any associated injuries or complications

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S72.042 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27125CPT Code

Total hip arthroplasty

Clinical Scenario

Used for patients with severe displacement requiring joint replacement.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgery.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes. S72.042 provides detailed information that can enhance patient care and treatment planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes. S72.042 provides detailed information that can enhance patient care and treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S72.042 provides detailed information that can enhance patient care and treatment planning.

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 S72.041 and S72.042?

S72.041 refers to a non-displaced fracture of the base of the neck of the left femur, while S72.042 indicates a displaced fracture, which is more complex and often requires surgical intervention.