Acute on chr slipped upper femoral epiphy, unstbl, l hip

This code signifies a severe, progressive displacement of the femoral head (epiphysis) from the femoral neck at the growth plate, specifically affecting the left hip. The "acute on chronic" designation indicates a sudden worsening of a pre-existing, long-standing slipped epiphysis. "Unstable" implies that the patient is unable to bear weight on the affected leg, even with crutches.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states an acute exacerbation of a chronic, non-traumatic slipped upper femoral epiphysis of the left hip, and the condition is unstable. This typically occurs in adolescents during growth spurts, presenting with sudden onset of severe hip or knee pain and inability to ambulate. Supporting documentation includes physician notes detailing the acute worsening, instability, and laterality.

• Ensure documentation specifies "acute on chronic" and "unstable" to differentiate from other types of slipped epiphysis.
• Verify laterality (left hip) is explicitly stated; do not assume.
• Distinguish from traumatic slipped epiphysis, which would be coded differently.