Displ spiral fx shaft of l femr, 7thM

Displaced spiral fracture of shaft of left femur, subsequent encounter for open fracture type I or II with nonunion

📋Clinical Description

This code signifies a complex fracture involving the shaft of the left femur, specifically a spiral type that is no longer in its anatomical position. The "subsequent encounter" indicates ongoing treatment for this injury, which was initially an open fracture (Type I or II) and has unfortunately progressed to a nonunion, meaning the bone fragments are failing to heal together.

🎯When to Use

Apply this code when documenting follow-up care for a patient with a previously sustained open spiral fracture of the left femoral shaft that is now displaced and has developed a nonunion. This would be used during encounters for continued management, such as surgical intervention for the nonunion, casting, or monitoring of the healing process.

💡Coding Tips

Ensure the documentation clearly specifies "left" femur and "spiral" fracture type.
Verify that the encounter is for a "subsequent" phase of care and that "nonunion" is explicitly stated.
Confirm the initial injury was an "open fracture type I or II" as this impacts the specific subcategory.

AI-generated reference — verify against official guidelines

Code Hierarchy

▲S72.342Displaced spiral fracture of shaft of left femur

S72.342M(current)

Crosswalks

733.82ApproxICD-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