2025 ICD-10-CM code S79.1
Physeal fracture of lower end of femur.
Medical necessity for treatment is established by the presence of a fracture, particularly if displaced or causing functional impairment. The chosen treatment (conservative vs. surgical) should be justified based on the specific fracture characteristics, the patient's age, and the potential for growth disturbances.
Pain in the knee area, swelling, bruising, deformity, warmth, stiffness, tenderness, difficulty standing or walking, restricted range of motion, muscle spasm, numbness and tingling (possible nerve injury), and avascular necrosis (bone tissue death due to lack of blood supply).
- Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T88)
- Injuries to the hip and thigh
In simple words: A growth plate fracture at the bottom of the thigh bone, often seen in children after a bad fall or accident.
A physeal fracture of the lower end of the femur (thigh bone) refers to a fracture, commonly occurring in children, of the growth plate (physis). This is typically a result of severe sudden or blunt trauma during events such as a fall from a high elevation, traffic accidents, child abuse, or sports activities.
Example 1: A 10-year-old boy falls from a tree and experiences pain and swelling in his knee. Imaging reveals a Salter-Harris Type II fracture of the distal femoral physis., A 15-year-old girl is involved in a motor vehicle accident and sustains a displaced Salter-Harris Type III fracture of the distal femur, requiring open reduction and internal fixation., A 7-year-old child presents with knee pain after a fall. Initial x-rays are negative, but follow-up imaging shows a subtle Salter-Harris Type I fracture with minimal displacement.
Detailed documentation of the injury mechanism, physical exam findings (including any neurovascular compromise), imaging results (X-rays, CT, MRI as needed), and treatment procedures (closed reduction, percutaneous fixation, open reduction internal fixation). Documenting the Salter-Harris classification type is essential.
** Growth arrest is a significant concern with distal femoral physeal fractures, occurring in up to 50% of cases. Close follow-up is crucial to monitor for growth disturbances and address any resulting leg length discrepancies or angular deformities. Treatment decisions should consider the patient's age, remaining growth potential, and the specific fracture pattern.
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatric Orthopedics, Emergency Medicine
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Emergency Room - Hospital, Office, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center