ICD-10-CM Billable Code

S79.002

Unspecified physeal fracture of upper end of left femur

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

An unspecified physeal fracture of the upper end of the left femur refers to a break involving the growth plate (physis) at the top part of the thighbone (femur) in the left leg. This type of fracture typically occurs in children and adolescents, whose bones are still growing. Since the fracture location involves the growth area, proper management is essential to ensure normal bone growth and prevent potential complications.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Trauma from falls or accidents Sports injuries High-impact collisions Sports-related falls or crashes Bike or motorcycle accidents Any direct blow or impact to the upper thigh or hip region

Key Symptoms: Pain at the top of the thigh or groin Swelling and tenderness in the hip or upper thigh area Limited range of motion in the hip joint Difficulty moving or bearing weight on the affected leg Visible deformity or abnormal positioning in severe cases Pain that worsens with movement or pressure

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis usually begins with a physical examination by a healthcare professional, who assesses pain, swelling, and movement limitations. Imaging tests are crucial to confirm the fracture and determine its severity. Common diagnostic tools include:

Treatment Protocols: Management depends on the severity and type of fracture. For an unspecified physeal fracture, treatment options include:

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 S79.002 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S79.002 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report S79.002?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Unspecified physeal fracture of upper end of left femur and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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