Disp fx of epiphy (separation) (upper) of l femr, 7thJ

Displaced fracture of epiphysis (separation) (upper) of left femur, subsequent encounter for open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC with delayed healing

📋Clinical Description

This code signifies a displaced fracture of the upper growth plate (epiphysis) of the left femur that was initially an open fracture (Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC). The "subsequent encounter" indicates that the patient is receiving ongoing care for this fracture, specifically due to delayed healing.

🎯When to Use

Use this code for follow-up encounters where a patient with a previously treated open epiphyseal fracture of the left upper femur is experiencing delayed union or nonunion. This applies when the initial injury involved significant soft tissue damage and contamination, characteristic of Gustilo-Anderson Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC open fractures.

💡Coding Tips

Ensure documentation clearly specifies "delayed healing" for the subsequent encounter.
Verify the laterality (left) and the specific anatomical site (epiphysis of femur).
Confirm the initial fracture was an open fracture classified as Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC.

AI-generated reference — verify against official guidelines

Code Hierarchy

▲S72.022Disp fx of epiphysis (separation) (upper) of left femur

S72.022J(current)

Crosswalks

V54.13ApproxICD-9

Same Category

S72Fracture of femur S72.0Fracture of head and neck of femur S72.00Fracture of unspecified part of neck of femur S72.001Fracture of unspecified part of neck of right femur S72.001AFracture of unsp part of neck of right femur, init