ICD 10 CM S72.431D | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S72.431D describes a specific type of fracture that occurs in the medial condyle of the right femur, which is a rounded projection located on the inside of the leg at the lower end of the thigh bone at the knee joint, and is typically caused by high-energy trauma such as a motor vehicle accident, sports-related injury, gunshot injury, or fall, as well as repetitive overload or low bone density, resulting in fracture fragments that separate and do not remain aligned, and this code is used for a subsequent encounter for a normally healing, closed fracture that is not exposed through a tear or laceration in the skin.

Official Description Of S72.431D

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S72.431D as:

When To Use S72.431D

The diagnosis describes by ICD-10-CM S72.431D is a displaced fracture of the medial condyle of the right femur, which can lead to various symptoms that greatly affect a patient’s mobility and quality of life. The condition is characterized by thigh pain, bruising, swelling, and deformity manifesting in a shortened limb. Patients may experience difficulty bearing weight, walking, or lifting the affected leg, and they may also feel pain in their hip or groin region when attempting to move the injured limb.

When diagnosing the condition, providers perform a comprehensive physical examination, which may be supplemented by a range of diagnostic imaging studies, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans. Such exams aim to identify the extent and location of the fracture, any bone displacement or joint involvement, and any potential complications related to the injury.

Depending on the severity and type of fracture, different treatment options may be considered. In cases where the fracture is stable, crutch-assisted weight bearing may be enough to allow the bone to heal over time. However, more severe fractures may require surgical intervention, such as open reduction and internal fixation, to realign and stabilize the fracture site. This intervention may require patients to take anticoagulant medications to prevent deep vein thrombosis or secondary pulmonary embolism, as well as antibiotics to minimize the risk of postoperative infection.

Postoperatively, patients will often receive pain management therapy in the form of analgesics or pain medications, along with comprehensive physical therapy and rehabilitation to restore mobility and function. Providers may also treat any underlying coexisting medical conditions that may complicate recovery and outcome.

It is important to note that recovery and healing time may vary depending on individual factors such as age, general health, and the severity of the injury. However, with early and appropriate medical intervention, patients with a displaced fracture of the medial condyle of the right femur can eventually regain full function and enjoy good quality of life.