ICD-10-CM Billable Code

S72.431

Displaced fracture of medial condyle of right femur

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

A displaced fracture of the medial condyle of the right femur is a serious injury involving a break in the inner part of the lower end of the thigh bone (femur). The femur is the longest bone in the body, and its medial condyle forms part of the knee joint. When this bone is fractured and displaced, it requires prompt medical attention to restore function and prevent complications. Knowing more about this injury can help ensure proper care and recovery.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Trauma from falls, especially onto the knee or thigh Car accidents or other high-impact injuries Sports injuries, such as during contact sports or high-impact activities Direct blow to the inner knee area Repeated stress or overuse, though less common for displaced fractures

Key Symptoms: Severe pain in the knee or thigh area Swelling around the knee Inability to move or bear weight on the affected leg Deformity or unnatural positioning of the knee Bruising around the injury site Tenderness when touching the knee Possible numbness or tingling if nerves are affected

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests. Doctors will assess pain, swelling, deformity, and range of motion. X-rays are the primary diagnostic tools used to identify the fracture’s location and displacement. Sometimes, advanced imaging such as MRI or CT scans may be ordered to gain detailed views, especially if other injuries or soft tissue damage are suspected.

Treatment Protocols: Immobilization with a cast or a brace to keep the femur stable Surgical intervention to realign displaced bone fragments, which may involve internal fixation with screws, plates, or pins Pain management through medications Rest and elevation to reduce swelling Physical therapy after initial healing to restore movement, strength, and function Monitoring for potential complications such as blood clots, infections, or nerve damage

Reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015 require the use of ICD-10-CM codes.

Clinical Advice & FAQs

Billing Guidance

Is S72.431 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S72.431 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report S72.431?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Displaced fracture of medial condyle of right femur and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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