Obturator dislocation of unspecified hip, initial encounter

This code describes a specific type of hip dislocation where the femoral head is displaced inferiorly and anteriorly, resting in the obturator foramen. This injury typically results from significant trauma, often involving abduction and external rotation of the hip.

Assign this code for the initial treatment of an obturator dislocation of the hip when the laterality (left or right) is not documented. This is appropriate for the first encounter where the injury is diagnosed and definitive treatment, such as reduction, is initiated.

• Only use this code when the documentation explicitly states "unspecified hip" or when laterality cannot be determined from the medical record.
• Ensure the "A" seventh character is appended for the initial encounter of care.
• If laterality is known (left or right), use the more specific codes (S73.021A or S73.022A).