S79.012
Salter-Harris Type I physeal fracture of upper end of left femur
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Medical Intelligence & Overview
A Salter-Harris Type I physeal fracture occurs in the growth plate of the upper end of the femur, specifically affecting children and adolescents whose bones are still developing. The condition involves a fracture through the growth plate (physis) without extending into the surrounding bone tissue, which can impact normal bone growth if not properly managed. This specific ICD-10 diagnosis code, S79.012, pertains to a fracture isolated to the left thigh's upper end in the femur, involving the growth plate.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Trauma or direct impact to the thigh, such as falls, sports injuries, or accidents High-energy injuries like car collisions or falls from significant heights Overuse injuries or repetitive stress that may weaken the growth plate Birth injuries in very rare cases affecting the femur's growth plate
Key Symptoms: Pain in the upper thigh, hip, or groin area Swelling and tenderness around the hip Limited range of motion or difficulty moving the leg Limping or difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg Possible bruising or discoloration around the injury site
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging studies. X-rays are the primary diagnostic tool used to visualize the fracture and determine its nature and extent. Since growth plate injuries can be subtle on X-ray, additional imaging such as MRI might be used if the injury is not clearly visible but clinically suspected. The physician assesses the fracture's location, displacement, and potential impact on the growth plate.
Treatment Protocols: Treatment approaches focus on ensuring proper healing and minimizing future growth disturbances. Common management strategies may include:
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is S79.012 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S79.012 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report S79.012?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Salter-Harris Type I physeal fracture of upper end of left femur and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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