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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS72.23

S72.23

Billable

Displaced subtrochanteric fracture of unspecified femur

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S72.23 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of displaced subtrochanteric fracture of unspecified femur.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A displaced subtrochanteric fracture of the femur occurs just below the lesser trochanter, which is a bony prominence on the femur. This type of fracture is often the result of high-energy trauma, such as falls or motor vehicle accidents, and is more common in older adults with osteoporosis. The displacement of the fracture fragments can lead to significant instability and may require surgical intervention to restore proper alignment and function. Symptoms typically include severe pain in the hip or thigh, inability to bear weight on the affected leg, and visible deformity. Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging studies, such as X-rays or CT scans, which reveal the fracture's location and displacement. Treatment options may include surgical fixation with plates or intramedullary nails, depending on the fracture's characteristics and the patient's overall health. Rehabilitation is crucial for restoring mobility and strength post-surgery.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture presentation and displacement
  • Need for precise documentation of fracture type and location
  • Potential for multiple treatment options impacting coding
  • Differentiation from similar femoral fractures

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and displacement
  • Failure to specify laterality (right or left femur)
  • Misclassification of fracture severity
  • Lack of supporting imaging reports

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical repair of displaced subtrochanteric fractures, management of complications such as non-union or malunion.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of surgical procedures performed, including fixation methods.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Thorough documentation of initial assessment, imaging results, and treatment provided.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial evaluation of trauma patients with suspected hip fractures.

Billing Considerations

Document mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S72.23 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of fracture type, displacement, and laterality
  • displaced fractures or other types of femoral fractures

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S72.23 When
  • Exclude codes for non

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27447CPT Code

Open treatment of femoral fracture, subtrochanteric

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is performed for a displaced subtrochanteric fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must ensure accurate coding of the surgical approach and fixation method.

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 data collection and reimbursement processes. S72.23 provides a clear distinction for displaced subtrochanteric fractures, enhancing clinical understanding 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 data collection and reimbursement processes. S72.23 provides a clear distinction for displaced subtrochanteric fractures, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S72.23 provides a clear distinction for displaced subtrochanteric fractures, enhancing clinical understanding 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 S72.23 and S72.22?

S72.23 refers specifically to displaced subtrochanteric fractures, while S72.22 is for non-displaced fractures. Accurate documentation of displacement is crucial for correct coding.