Name of the Condition

• Displaced Subtrochanteric Fracture of Right Femur, Initial Encounter for Closed Fracture
• Medical term: Subtrochanteric fracture

Summary

A displaced subtrochanteric fracture of the right femur is a type of hip fracture where the bone breaks just below the lesser trochanter in the femur. In a closed fracture, the skin remains intact. This injury is considered an emergency and requires medical evaluation and treatment.

Causes

• Trauma or impact to the hip area, often resulting from accidents, falls, or sports injuries.
• Certain medical conditions, such as osteoporosis, can predispose individuals to fractures.

Risk Factors

• Advanced age, especially in individuals over 65.
• Conditions like osteoporosis or osteopenia.
• History of falls or previous fractures.
• High-impact sports participation.

Symptoms

• Severe pain in the hip or groin area.
• Inability to bear weight on the injured leg.
• Swelling or bruising in the affected area.
• Shortening or rotation of the leg.

Diagnosis

• Imaging: X-rays or MRI scans to visualize and confirm the fracture.
• Physical Examination: Assessing pain, mobility, and alignment of the leg.

Treatment Options

• Surgical Intervention: Often needed to realign the bone using metal rods or screws.
• Rehabilitation Therapy: Physical therapy to restore strength and mobility.
• Pain Management: Medications to manage pain and inflammation during recovery.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, many individuals regain full mobility.
• Regular follow-up is essential to monitor healing and prevent complications.

Complications

• Potential for malunion or nonunion of the bone.
• Risk of avascular necrosis due to blood supply disruption.
• Development of arthritis in the affected joint over time.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Diet and Exercise: Maintaining bone health through balanced nutrition and weight-bearing exercises.
• Fall Prevention: Implementing home safety measures to reduce fall risks.

When to Seek Professional Help

• If you experience severe hip pain after a fall or trauma.
• Inability to move or bear weight on the leg.
• Visible deformity or swelling in the hip area.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
• National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure that the fracture type (displaced, subtrochanteric, closed) and location (right femur) are documented clearly.
• Double-check coding guidelines for initial encounters to ensure proper code assignment.
• Common error: Confusing open and closed fractures; verification from medical records is essential.