S72.452
Displaced supracondylar fracture without intracondylar extension of lower end of left femur
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Medical Intelligence & Overview
A displaced supracondylar fracture of the lower end of the left femur is a specific type of fracture occurring just above the knee joint. This injury involves a break or crack in the femur bone, which can lead to significant pain and disability if not treated promptly. The term 'displaced' indicates that the broken bone pieces are misaligned, often requiring medical intervention to realign the bones for proper healing. The absence of intracondylar extension suggests that the fracture does not extend into the joint cavity, which can influence treatment options and prognosis.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Trauma from high-impact accidents, such as car or motorcycle crashes Falls from significant heights, especially in older adults or those with osteoporosis Sports injuries involving direct blow or twisting forces to the knee Direct blows or trauma to the knee area
Key Symptoms: Sudden and severe pain around the knee and lower thigh Swelling and tenderness in the affected area Deformity or abnormal angulation of the leg Difficulty moving or bearing weight on the leg Possible bruising around the injury site Restricted movement of the knee joint
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis begins with a thorough clinical examination by a healthcare professional, focusing on the injury's location, deformity, and swelling. Imaging studies are essential for confirming the fracture type and severity:
Treatment Protocols: Treatment for a displaced supracondylar femur fracture typically involves surgical intervention to realign the broken bone fragments and secure them for healing. The specific approach varies based on the patient's age, health, and fracture characteristics:
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is S72.452 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S72.452 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report S72.452?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Displaced supracondylar fracture without intracondylar extension of lower end of left femur and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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