ICD 10 CM S72.441E | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S72.441E describes a specific type of injury, namely a displaced fracture of the lower epiphysis of the right femur, which occurs when the growth plate located at the lower portion of the thigh bone near its connection with the knee is broken due to trauma resulting from sports activities, motor vehicle accidents, falls, or other injuries, and is further classified as type I or II according to the Gustilo classification for open long bone fractures, and this code is used to indicate a subsequent encounter for a normally healing, open fracture that is exposed through a tear or laceration in the skin caused by the fracture fragments or external injury.

Official Description Of S72.441E

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S72.441E as:

Clinical Information

The diagnosis describes by the ICD 10 CM S72.441E code pertains to a specific type of fracture that occurs in the lower epiphysis of the right femur. This type of fracture can cause pain in the affected area accompanied by swelling, bruising, stiffness, tenderness, inability to bear weight, and restricted range of motion. It can also result in bone growth impairment and leg length discrepancy if left untreated.

Patients with this type of fracture typically undergo a thorough medical check-up and imaging tests such as an X-ray, MRI, or CT scans. Medical practitioners rely heavily on the results of these tests to effectively diagnose the true extent of the damage, making an informed decision on what the best course of treatment for the patient is.

Non-operative treatments, like casting and traction, may be enough to treat some patients, especially those in the infant and under five age groups. However, some cases may require open reduction internal fixation surgery to stabilize the fracture through the use of screws, rods, or pins. Once the surgery is completed, the affected area will be immobilized temporarily with the aid of casts or braces to allow for healing before rehabilitation and physical therapy begins.

Physical therapy is crucial in rebuilding the muscles around the affected area to improve flexibility, range of motion, and muscle strength. The therapy promotes the proper alignment of the femur and enhances the joint’s stability, enabling patients to walk and bear weight normally. Physical therapists focus on personalized rehabilitation plans that include stretching, strength training, and cardiovascular exercises.

The prognosis for patients with the ICD 10 CM S72.441E injury code varies depending on factors such as the type of fracture, the patient’s age, overall health, and the severity of the injury. Younger patients typically have a higher potential for a speedy recovery and full restoration of leg function, while older patients may experience a prolonged healing process.

In conclusion, the ICD 10 CM S72.441E diagnosis code relates to a specific type of lower femur fracture that can cause significant pain, immobility, and deformity. Determining the extent of the injury through medical check-ups and imaging tests is critical in determining the most effective course of treatment for patients. Whether non-operative or surgical intervention is needed, physical therapy is essential in rebuilding muscle strength and improving flexibility and range of motion to achieve a thorough rehabilitation outcome.