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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS72.325

S72.325

Billable

Nondisplaced transverse fracture of shaft of left femur

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S72.325 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nondisplaced transverse fracture of shaft of left femur.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A nondisplaced transverse fracture of the shaft of the left femur is characterized by a break in the femur that does not result in the bone fragments being displaced from their normal anatomical position. This type of fracture typically occurs due to high-energy trauma, such as falls or vehicular accidents, but can also result from lower-energy impacts in individuals with weakened bone density, such as the elderly. Clinically, patients may present with localized pain, swelling, and inability to bear weight on the affected leg. Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging studies, primarily X-rays, which reveal the fracture line across the shaft of the femur. Treatment often involves conservative management with immobilization, but surgical intervention may be necessary in cases where stability is a concern or if the fracture is associated with other injuries. Understanding the nuances of this fracture type is crucial for orthopedic trauma surgery, as it can significantly impact the patient's recovery and rehabilitation process.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between displaced and nondisplaced fractures
  • Understanding the specific location of the fracture (shaft vs. proximal/distal)
  • Identifying associated injuries or complications
  • Proper documentation of the mechanism of injury

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the fracture type and location
  • Failure to document associated injuries
  • Misclassification of fracture displacement
  • Inconsistent coding across multiple encounters

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes, imaging reports, and follow-up assessments are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from falls, sports injuries, or motor vehicle accidents.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant imaging and treatment plans are documented to support coding.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Accurate initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment provided in the emergency setting.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute limb pain and swelling after trauma.

Billing Considerations

Document the mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S72.325 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the fracture type, location, and any associated injuries are accurately documented
  • Include any relevant external cause codes if applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S72.325 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27506CPT Code

Open treatment of femoral shaft fracture

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for stabilization of the fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and any implants used.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must ensure that all surgical details are accurately captured.

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. S72.325 provides a clear distinction between nondisplaced and displaced fractures, which is crucial for 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. S72.325 provides a clear distinction between nondisplaced and displaced fractures, which is crucial for treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S72.325 provides a clear distinction between nondisplaced and displaced fractures, which is crucial for 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 a nondisplaced and displaced fracture?

A nondisplaced fracture means the bone cracks but maintains its proper alignment, while a displaced fracture involves the bone fragments being misaligned.