ICD 10 CM S72.336R | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S72.336R describes a specific type of femoral shaft fracture that occurs as a result of high impact trauma, such as a direct blow sustained during a fall, crush injury, traffic accident, or underlying conditions like osteoporosis or cancer, where the fracture is angular or diagonal across the shaft of the femur, without any misalignment of the fracture fragments, and is classified as a Gustilo type IIIA, IIIB or IIIC fracture where the fragments unite incompletely or in a faulty position and are exposed through a tear or laceration of the skin, however, the provider has not documented whether the injury involves the right or left leg at this subsequent encounter.

Official Description Of S72.336R

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S72.336R as:

Clinical Information

The diagnosis describes by ICD-10-CM S72.336R pertains to a specific type of femoral shaft fracture that can cause a great deal of discomfort and lead to limited mobility. This particular diagnosis code refers to a nondisplaced oblique and open fracture of the femoral shaft that occurs in an unspecified leg.

A fracture of the femoral shaft can result in pain and swelling in the hip, bruising, difficulty bearing weight, and restricted range of motion. To diagnose the condition, a healthcare provider will conduct a thorough physical examination of the patient and take a detailed history of the injury. They may also use imaging techniques such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), or bone scans.

When it comes to treatment, stable and closed fractures can typically heal without the need for surgery. However, unstable or displaced fractures may require reduction and fixation. In cases where the fracture is open or the wound is severe, surgery may be necessary to close the wound.

Other treatment options for femoral shaft fractures may include the application of ice packs to help reduce swelling and pain, rest to promote healing, spica casts to immobilize the limb in infants, or light traction to help stabilize the leg. Pain relief medication such as analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also be prescribed to manage discomfort during the healing process.

As the fracture heals, it is common for patients to undergo physical therapy and start to incorporate weight-bearing exercises into their routine. This is to help restore function and mobility to the affected area while also minimizing the risk of future injuries.

It is worth noting that while this diagnosis code refers specifically to femoral shaft fractures, there are many other types of fractures that can occur in the leg. Each of these may have their own unique diagnosis code, and treatment recommendations may vary depending on the nature and severity of the injury.

In conclusion, the ICD-10-CM S72.336R diagnosis code describes a painful and potentially debilitating type of femoral shaft fracture that can require a wide range of treatment options. By working closely with a healthcare provider and following recommended treatment guidelines, many patients can make a full recovery and minimize the risk of future injuries.