Injury to femoral nerve

This code signifies a traumatic injury affecting the femoral nerve, a major nerve in the leg responsible for sensation to the anterior thigh and motor function of the quadriceps femoris muscle. Such injuries can result in weakness or paralysis of knee extension, and sensory deficits over the anterior thigh and medial lower leg.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a direct injury to the femoral nerve, such as from a fracture, dislocation, penetrating wound, or iatrogenic trauma during surgery. Supporting documentation should specify the nerve involved and the nature of the injury.

• Differentiate from other neuropathies of the lower limb; ensure the documentation specifically names the femoral nerve.
• Consider an external cause code (E-code) to describe the circumstances of the injury, if known.
• Do not use for non-traumatic conditions affecting the femoral nerve, such as entrapment neuropathies or inflammatory conditions.