Displ spiral fx shaft of l femr, 7thN

Displaced spiral fracture of shaft of left femur, subsequent encounter for open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC with nonunion

📋Clinical Description

This code signifies a left femur shaft fracture, specifically a spiral type, that is displaced and has failed to heal (nonunion). The fracture is an open fracture, classified as Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC, indicating significant soft tissue damage and contamination. This code is used when the patient is receiving follow-up care for this specific injury.

🎯When to Use

Apply this code for patients presenting for ongoing treatment of a previously diagnosed displaced spiral fracture of the left femoral shaft that has not united. This includes situations like wound care, bone grafting procedures, or hardware adjustments related to the nonunion of an open fracture (Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC). It is appropriate for any encounter after the initial treatment of the fracture.

💡Coding Tips

Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the "subsequent encounter" status for this specific fracture.
Verify the open fracture type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) is explicitly stated in the medical record.
Do not use this code for the initial treatment of the fracture or for malunion; a separate code exists for malunion.

AI-generated reference — verify against official guidelines

Code Hierarchy

▲S72.342Displaced spiral fracture of shaft of left femur

S72.342N(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