S79.01
Salter-Harris Type I physeal fracture of upper end of femur
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Inclusion Terms
- Acute on chronic slipped capital femoral epiphysis (traumatic)
- Acute slipped capital femoral epiphysis (traumatic)
- Capital femoral epiphyseal fracture
Excludes Type 1
- chronic slipped upper femoral epiphysis (nontraumatic) (M93.02-)
Medical Intelligence & Overview
A Salter-Harris Type I physeal fracture involves a break through the growth plate at the upper end of the thigh bone (femur). This type of injury primarily affects children and adolescents, particularly around the hip area. The condition is sometimes linked with a slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE), which involves the abnormal slipping of the head of the femur from its neck at the growth plate. Recognizing and understanding this injury is crucial for proper treatment and recovery.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Traumatic injury from falls, sports accidents, or direct blows to the hip area Sudden twisting or hyperextension of the hip joint Overuse or stress on the growth plates during vigorous activities Pre-existing conditions like slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE), which may predispose to fractures at the growth plate
Key Symptoms: Pain localized in the hip, groin, or thigh Swelling or tenderness around the hip area Difficulty or pain when moving the hip or leg Limited range of motion in the hip joint Limping or abnormal gait Potential referred pain in the knee or lower leg
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Diagnosing a Salter-Harris Type I fracture typically involves a physical examination followed by imaging tests. Medical professionals may use X-rays to visualize the growth plate and determine the presence of a fracture. Sometimes, MRI scans are ordered to get a detailed view of the soft tissues and cartilage to confirm the injury and rule out other hip conditions. Accurate diagnosis is essential to differentiate this fracture from other hip injuries or conditions involving the growth plate.
Treatment Protocols: Treatment options usually depend on the severity of the fracture and the patient’s overall health. Common approaches include:
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is S79.01 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S79.01 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report S79.01?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Salter-Harris Type I physeal fracture of upper end of femur and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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