Nondisp apophyseal fx unsp femr, 7thJ

This code signifies a fracture of the growth plate (apophysis) of the femur that is not displaced, meaning the bone fragments are still in their normal alignment. It specifically applies to an open fracture (where the bone broke through the skin) that was initially classified as a severe type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) and is now being treated for delayed healing.

This code is used during follow-up encounters for patients who previously sustained a severe open apophyseal femoral fracture (type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) and are experiencing a slower-than-expected healing process. It indicates that the fracture is still present and requires ongoing management due to delayed union.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nondisplaced" and "apophyseal fracture of femur."
• Verify the initial open fracture type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) was documented and that the current encounter addresses delayed healing.
• This code is for subsequent encounters; an initial encounter would use a different code from the S72.13- series with an "A" seventh character.