Acute on chr slipped upper femoral epiphy, unstbl, bi hips

This code signifies a severe, progressive displacement of the femoral head from the femoral neck through the growth plate, occurring acutely on a pre-existing chronic condition. This specific instance is non-traumatic, affecting both hips, and is characterized by instability, meaning the epiphysis is easily displaced or cannot be maintained in a reduced position. It represents a critical orthopedic condition requiring urgent intervention.

Use this code for patients presenting with a sudden worsening of symptoms (e.g., severe pain, inability to bear weight) in both hips, superimposed on a history of chronic Slipped Upper Femoral Epiphysis (SUFE). Documentation should clearly indicate "acute on chronic," "unstable," and "bilateral" involvement, along with the absence of a traumatic event. This code is appropriate when surgical stabilization is typically indicated due to the instability.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "acute on chronic" and "unstable" for both hips; otherwise, a different code for chronic or stable SUFE may be more appropriate.
• Distinguish carefully between traumatic and non-traumatic causes; this code is specifically for non-traumatic instability.
• Verify laterality. This code is for bilateral involvement; separate codes exist for unilateral acute on chronic unstable SUFE.