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 CodesS72.333

S72.333

Billable

Displaced oblique fracture of shaft of unspecified femur

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S72.333 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of displaced oblique fracture of shaft of unspecified femur.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A displaced oblique fracture of the shaft of the femur is characterized by a break in the femur that occurs at an angle, resulting in the bone fragments being misaligned. This type of fracture is often the result of high-energy trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or falls from significant heights. The displacement of the fracture can lead to complications such as malunion or nonunion if not properly managed. Patients typically present with severe pain, swelling, and inability to bear weight on the affected leg. Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging studies, including X-rays or CT scans, which reveal the fracture pattern and displacement. Treatment usually involves orthopedic intervention, which may include surgical fixation with plates, screws, or intramedullary nails, depending on the fracture's characteristics and the patient's overall health. Rehabilitation is essential for restoring function and strength to the affected limb.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture types and locations
  • Need for precise documentation of displacement
  • Differentiation from similar fracture codes
  • Potential for multiple treatment options

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture type and displacement
  • Failure to specify laterality or location
  • Misclassification of fracture severity
  • Inconsistent coding of associated injuries

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the documentation specifies the type of fracture, displacement, and any surgical interventions performed.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive initial assessment notes, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute limb pain and deformity after trauma.

Billing Considerations

Document the mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions provided.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S72.333 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of fracture type, displacement, and any associated injuries
  • Use additional codes for complications or comorbid conditions as necessary

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S72.333 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27447CPT Code

Open treatment of femoral shaft fracture

Clinical Scenario

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

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, fixation method, and post-operative care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must ensure that the fracture type and treatment are clearly documented.

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 details about displacement and fracture type, 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 details about displacement and fracture type, 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 significance of specifying 'displaced' in the fracture code?

Specifying 'displaced' indicates that the bone fragments are misaligned, which can affect treatment options and recovery outcomes. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate management and reimbursement.