ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS72.132

S72.132

Billable

Displaced apophyseal fracture of left femur

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S72.132 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of displaced apophyseal fracture of left femur.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A displaced apophyseal fracture of the left femur refers to a fracture occurring at the growth plate (apophysis) of the femur, specifically on the left side. This type of fracture is commonly seen in adolescents and young adults, often resulting from high-impact trauma such as sports injuries or falls. The displacement indicates that the fracture fragments have moved out of their normal alignment, which can complicate healing and may require surgical intervention. Symptoms typically include severe pain, swelling, and an inability to bear weight on the affected leg. Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI, which help assess the extent of the fracture and any associated injuries. Treatment may involve conservative management with immobilization or surgical options like internal fixation to realign the bone fragments and stabilize the fracture site. Proper management is crucial to prevent long-term complications, including growth disturbances or joint dysfunction.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Need for precise documentation of fracture type and location
  • Differentiation between displaced and non-displaced fractures
  • Potential for associated injuries requiring additional coding
  • Variability in treatment approaches impacting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture displacement
  • Failure to specify laterality (left vs. right)
  • Misclassification of fracture type
  • Lack of imaging reports to support diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and follow-up notes are essential for accurate coding.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from sports injuries, falls, or vehicular accidents.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly indicate the type of fracture and any surgical interventions performed.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Growth plate involvement must be documented, along with any developmental considerations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures in children due to play-related injuries or accidents.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of growth plate implications and potential for future growth disturbances.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S72.132 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding fractures, ensuring to document the specific site, type, and laterality
  • Include any associated injuries or complications in the coding process

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S72.132 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 displaced fractures.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and any fixation devices used.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specifics of the fracture and treatment approach.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including laterality and displacement, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and billing.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, including laterality and displacement, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and billing.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

billing.

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 displaced and non-displaced apophyseal fracture?

A displaced apophyseal fracture involves a separation of the fracture fragments, while a non-displaced fracture means the fragments remain aligned. This distinction is crucial for treatment and coding.