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

Nondisplaced fracture of lower epiphysis (separation) of unspecified femur, subsequent encounter for open fracture type I or II with delayed healing

📋Clinical Description

This code signifies a fracture of the growth plate at the lower end of an unspecified femur that has not shifted out of alignment. It is used when the patient is receiving follow-up care for an open fracture (where the bone broke through the skin) classified as Type I or II, and the healing process is taking longer than expected.

🎯When to Use

This code is appropriate for subsequent encounters when a patient with a previously diagnosed Salter-Harris type I or II fracture of the distal femur, which was an open fracture, presents for ongoing management due to delayed union. It indicates that the initial injury was an open fracture and that the bone is not healing at the anticipated rate.

💡Coding Tips

Ensure documentation specifies an open fracture (Type I or II) and delayed healing for a subsequent encounter.
Verify the fracture is nondisplaced and located at the lower epiphysis of the femur.
Do not use for initial encounters or for fractures that are healing normally.

AI-generated reference — verify against official guidelines

Code Hierarchy

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

S72.446H(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