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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS72.133

S72.133

Billable

Displaced apophyseal fracture of unspecified femur

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S72.133 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of displaced apophyseal fracture of unspecified femur.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A displaced apophyseal fracture of the femur refers to a fracture occurring at the site of an apophysis, which is a bony outgrowth where muscles and tendons attach. This type of fracture is particularly common in adolescents and young adults due to the ongoing development of the skeletal system. The displacement indicates that the fracture fragments have moved out of their normal alignment, which can complicate healing and may require surgical intervention. Such fractures can occur due to high-impact trauma, such as falls or sports injuries, and are often associated with significant pain, swelling, and limited mobility. In the context of hip fractures, these injuries can lead to complications such as avascular necrosis if not treated promptly and appropriately. Orthopedic trauma surgery may be necessary to realign the fractured bone and stabilize it, often using internal fixation devices. Accurate diagnosis and coding are crucial for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture location and type
  • Need for precise documentation of displacement
  • Differentiation from non-displaced fractures
  • Potential for associated injuries (e.g., hip dislocations)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and displacement
  • Failure to specify the location of the fracture
  • Misclassification of fracture severity
  • Inconsistent use of imaging results in documentation

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 high-energy trauma requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly indicate the type of fracture, displacement, and any surgical procedures performed.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment plans must be documented thoroughly.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute pain and swelling after trauma, requiring immediate evaluation and possible referral to orthopedics.

Billing Considerations

Accurate coding requires clear documentation of the mechanism of injury and initial treatment provided.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S72.133 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring that the fracture is documented as displaced and specifying the location
  • Include any relevant imaging studies and treatment plans in the documentation

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S72.133 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 displaced apophyseal fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and any implants used.

Specialty Considerations

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

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 the distinction between displaced and non-displaced fractures, which enhances 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 fractures, including the distinction between displaced and non-displaced fractures, which enhances 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 displaced and non-displaced apophyseal fracture?

A displaced apophyseal fracture involves the fracture fragments moving out of alignment, while a non-displaced fracture means the fragments remain in their normal position. This distinction is crucial for treatment and coding.