Oth fx lower end unsp femur, subs for clos fx w delay heal

Other fracture of lower end of unspecified femur, subsequent encounter for closed fracture with delayed healing

📋Clinical Description

This code signifies a fracture in the lower portion of the femur that is not otherwise specified, and is currently in a delayed healing stage. The fracture was initially closed, meaning the skin remained intact at the time of injury. The "subsequent encounter" indicates the patient is receiving ongoing care for this previously diagnosed injury.

🎯When to Use

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a closed distal femoral fracture that is not healing at the expected rate. This would include situations where the physician documents "delayed union" or "delayed healing" for a previously treated closed fracture of the lower femur. It is used after the initial treatment of the acute fracture.

💡Coding Tips

Ensure documentation clearly states "delayed healing" or "delayed union" for a closed fracture.
Verify the fracture location is the lower end of the femur and is not more specifically classifiable.
Confirm this is a subsequent encounter, not the initial treatment of the acute fracture.

AI-generated reference — verify against official guidelines

Code Hierarchy

▲S72.499Other fracture of lower end of unspecified femur

S72.499G(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