Nondisp fx of low epiphy (separation) of unsp femr, 7thG

Nondisplaced fracture of lower epiphysis (separation) of unspecified femur, subsequent encounter for closed fracture with delayed healing

📋Clinical Description

This code signifies a subsequent encounter for a fracture of the lower growth plate of the femur that was initially nondisplaced and is now experiencing delayed healing. The specific side of the femur (left or right) is not documented or is unknown. The fracture remains closed, meaning the skin is intact over the injury site.

🎯When to Use

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a previously diagnosed, nondisplaced distal femoral epiphyseal fracture that is not healing as expected within the typical timeframe. This would be used after the initial treatment phase and during ongoing management for slow bone union. It is appropriate when the laterality of the injury is not specified in the medical record.

💡Coding Tips

Ensure documentation clearly indicates "delayed healing" and that this is a subsequent encounter for the fracture.
Verify the fracture was initially nondisplaced and remains closed.
Only use this code when the laterality (left or right) of the femur is truly unspecified. If specified, a more precise code should be used.

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Code Hierarchy

▲S72.446Nondisp fx of lower epiphysis (separation) of unsp femur

S72.446G(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