Name of the Condition

• Displaced fracture of the base of the neck of the right femur (S72.041G).

Summary

• This condition refers to a specific type of thigh bone fracture located at the neck's base, where the femur connects to the hip joint. The term "displaced" signifies that the bone fragments have moved out of their normal position. The "subsequent encounter for closed fracture with delayed healing" indicates a follow-up visit when the fracture has not healed as expected.

Causes

• This fracture is commonly caused by trauma or high-impact injuries, such as falls or car accidents. In older adults, particularly those with osteoporosis, fractures may occur from minor falls.

Risk Factors

• Age (elderly individuals are more at risk)
• Osteoporosis or other bone-weakening conditions
• High-risk activities or sports
• Previous fractures or bone injuries

Symptoms

• Severe pain in the hip or groin area
• Swelling and bruising
• Inability to put weight on the affected leg
• Visible deformity or shortening of the leg

Diagnosis

• Physical examination to assess pain, range of motion, and leg alignment
• Imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans to confirm fracture displacement and healing status

Treatment Options

• Non-surgical: Temporary immobilization with a brace or cast, and physical therapy.
• Surgical: Internal fixation with screws or rods, hip replacement in severe cases. Surgery realigns and stabilizes the bone to promote proper healing.
• Delayed healing might require enhanced nutritional support and possibly bone stimulation therapies.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis depends on timely and appropriate treatment. Healing may be slower due to displacement and initial delayed healing.
• Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor the healing process and adjust treatment as necessary.

Complications

• Nonunion (failure to heal properly)
• Reduced mobility or joint stiffness
• Increased risk of future fractures
• Development of arthritis in the hip joint

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
• Regular weight-bearing exercise to strengthen bones.
• Home safety measures to prevent falls, especially in older adults.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent or worsening pain despite treatment
• Signs of infection (redness, swelling, fever at fracture site)
• Sudden changes in mobility or ability to use the affected leg

Additional Resources

• National Osteoporosis Foundation
• American Bone Health

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate coding by confirming the precise location and type of fracture.
• Use modifiers to indicate the subsequent encounter with delayed healing.
• Double-check the laterality (right side) and ensure the full code including the appropriate seventh character (i.e., "G" for subsequent encounter with delayed healing) is used.