Nondisp fx of low epiphy (separation) of unsp femr, 7thJ

Nondisplaced fracture of lower epiphysis (separation) of unspecified femur, subsequent encounter for open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC with delayed healing

📋Clinical Description

This code describes a nondisplaced fracture of the growth plate at the lower end of an unspecified femur. It specifically indicates that the fracture was initially an open fracture (meaning the bone broke through the skin) of a severe type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) and is now being treated for delayed healing.

🎯When to Use

This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters when a patient with a previously diagnosed severe open fracture of the lower femoral epiphysis is experiencing delayed union or nonunion. It should be used when the fracture is nondisplaced and the specific side (left or right) of the femur is not documented.

💡Coding Tips

Ensure documentation specifies "nondisplaced" and "delayed healing" for an open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC.
Confirm the fracture involves the lower epiphysis of the femur.
If the side of the femur is known, a more specific code should be selected.

AI-generated reference — verify against official guidelines

Code Hierarchy

▲S72.446Nondisp fx of lower epiphysis (separation) of unsp femur

S72.446J(current)

Crosswalks

V54.15ApproxICD-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