Name of the Condition

• Unspecified intracapsular fracture of left femur, initial encounter for closed fracture
• Technical term: Femoral neck fracture

Summary

An unspecified intracapsular fracture of the left femur refers to a break in the upper part of the thigh bone near the hip joint, specifically within the capsule that surrounds the hip joint. This condition involves a closed fracture, meaning the surrounding skin remains intact. It typically requires prompt medical attention to prevent complications.

Causes

• Traumatic incidents such as falls or sports injuries
• Age-related bone density loss (osteoporosis)
• Repetitive stress or overuse

Risk Factors

• Advanced age, particularly in individuals over 65
• Female gender, due to higher prevalence of osteoporosis
• Participation in high-impact sports or activities
• Previous history of fractures

Symptoms

• Severe pain in the hip or groin area
• Inability to bear weight on the affected leg
• Swelling or bruising around the hip
• The affected leg may appear shorter or turned outward

Diagnosis

• Physical examination to assess pain and hip mobility
• Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to view the fracture

Treatment Options

• Surgical intervention (internal fixation, arthroplasty) to repair or replace the joint
• Physical therapy to restore mobility and strength post-surgery
• Pain management with medication

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Most patients recover well with appropriate surgical intervention and rehabilitation
• Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and address any complications

Complications

• Nonunion or malunion of the fracture
• Avascular necrosis, leading to bone tissue death due to poor blood supply
• Increased risk of future fractures

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Engage in weight-bearing exercises to strengthen bones
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
• Practice fall-prevention strategies, especially in the elderly

When to Seek Professional Help

• Sudden, severe pain in the hip or groin area after an injury
• Inability to move or bear weight on the leg
• Noticeable deformity or abnormal positioning of the leg

Additional Resources

• Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA)
• National Osteoporosis Foundation
• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure specificity in coding by confirming the laterality (left femur) and encounter type (initial, closed)
• Be cautious of distinguishing between closed and open fractures to avoid erroneous coding