Oth fx lower end of unsp femur, subs for clos fx w nonunion

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

📋Clinical Description

This code signifies a fracture in the lower part of the thigh bone, near the knee, that is not healing properly (nonunion) and is currently being treated. The fracture was initially closed, meaning the skin was not broken.

🎯When to Use

This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters when a patient is receiving ongoing care for a closed fracture of the distal femur that has failed to unite. This includes situations where the patient is undergoing conservative management, physical therapy, or preparing for surgical intervention to address the nonunion.

💡Coding Tips

Ensure documentation clearly states "nonunion" and that the fracture was initially closed.
Verify the encounter is for subsequent care, not the initial treatment of the fracture.
Confirm the fracture location is the lower end of the femur; avoid using for shaft or upper end fractures.

AI-generated reference — verify against official guidelines

Code Hierarchy

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

S72.499K(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