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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS72.326

S72.326

Billable

Nondisplaced transverse fracture of shaft of unspecified femur

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S72.326 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nondisplaced transverse fracture of shaft of unspecified femur.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A nondisplaced transverse fracture of the shaft of the femur is characterized by a break in the bone that does not result in the bone fragments being displaced from their normal alignment. This type of fracture typically occurs due to high-energy trauma, such as falls or vehicular accidents, but can also result from lower-energy mechanisms in individuals with weakened bone density. The femur, being the longest and strongest bone in the body, is crucial for weight-bearing and mobility. Nondisplaced fractures may not present with significant deformity, but they can cause pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through imaging studies, such as X-rays, which reveal the fracture line without displacement. Treatment often involves conservative management, including immobilization and rehabilitation, although surgical intervention may be necessary in certain cases to ensure proper healing and restore function. Understanding the nuances of this fracture type is essential for accurate coding and appropriate management in orthopedic trauma surgery.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture presentation and symptoms
  • Need for precise imaging interpretation
  • Differentiation from other types of femoral fractures
  • Potential for associated injuries in trauma cases

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and location
  • Failure to specify laterality when applicable
  • Misclassification of fracture displacement
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on healing progress

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of femoral fractures post-trauma, surgical fixation of displaced fractures.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of fracture type and any surgical interventions performed.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Accurate initial assessment notes, imaging interpretations, and treatment provided.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial evaluation of trauma patients with suspected femur fractures.

Billing Considerations

Document mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S72.326 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding fractures, including specificity in fracture type and location
  • Ensure to document the mechanism of injury and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S72.326 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27506CPT Code

Open treatment of femoral fracture, shaft

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for nondisplaced fractures.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

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 facilitating better 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 facilitating better treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of fractures, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better 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 displaced and nondisplaced fracture?

A displaced fracture involves a break where the bone fragments are misaligned, while a nondisplaced fracture means the bone remains in its normal position despite the fracture.