ICD 10 CM S72.46 | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S72.46 describes a specific type of fracture in the lower end of the femur, known as a supracondylar fracture, which occurs when the thigh bone breaks just above the rounded projections on either side at the end of the bone, with the fracture extending into the condylar area, and is typically caused by traumatic events such as being hit by a motor vehicle or experiencing a fall from a high elevation, although elderly individuals with thinning bones or cancer may be more susceptible to this type of fracture even from minor trauma.

Official Description Of S72.46

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S72.46 as:

When To Use S72.46

The diagnosis describes by ICD-10 CM S72.46 code is a traumatic fracture that occurs in the lower end of the femur bone. This particular type of fracture involves the supracondylar region, which is the portion of the bone just above the knee joint. In addition, the fracture extends into the intracondylar region, which is the area inside the knee joint. The intracondylar extension is considered a severe form of this fracture and requires careful assessment and management to prevent complications.

Individuals who experience a supracondylar fracture with intracondylar extension of the lower end of the femur typically report intense pain, difficulty bearing weight, limited range of motion, and discomfort during movement of the leg. Furthermore, this type of fracture may result in compartment syndrome, a condition associated with increased pressure within a muscle compartment, which can lead to tissue damage, reduced blood flow, and impaired bone growth. Without proper treatment, this condition can lead to leg length discrepancy and other debilitating complications.

Diagnosis of this condition is typically based on patients’ medical history, physical examination, and imaging such as AP and lateral view X-rays of the affected knee. Healthcare providers may also use other imaging techniques, such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to assess more complex fractures and associated injuries accurately.

Most individuals with this type of fracture require surgical reduction, which involves aligning the bone fragments and stabilizing them with either closed or open fixation. Postoperative therapy and bracing are necessary to ensure the proper alignment and stability of the treated area. Open fractures require surgery to close the wound, as this can reduce the risk of infections and aid in the healing process. Patients who cannot undergo surgery may require prolonged bed rest, which can expose them to complications like blood clots and pneumonia, making it essential to consider alternative options.

As part of the recovery process, individuals with this type of fracture may receive narcotic analgesics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain symptoms. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to prevent or treat infection, especially in individuals with open wounds. As the healing process progresses, it is necessary to incorporate exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion. Often, recovery from these types of injuries requires several months and can involve other complications, which require further treatment.

In conclusion, the ICD-10 CM S72.46 code represents a severe form of traumatic fracture occurring in the lower part of the femur with an intracondylar extension. Proper management of this condition is crucial to avoid complications and facilitate healing. Treatment methods involve surgical reduction, postoperative therapy and bracing, and medication administration to manage symptoms such as pain and infection. Patients should also receive exercises to improve mobility and promote overall recovery. Healthcare providers play a vital role in the management of this condition, and proper identification and treatment protocols can positively impact patients’ outcomes.