ICD-10: S72.471

The ICD-10-CM code S72.471 specifically refers to a torus fracture of the lower end of the right femur. This type of fracture is characterized by a compression fracture that typically occurs in children, where the bone bends and buckles rather than breaking completely. Below is a detailed clinical description and relevant information regarding this diagnosis code.

Clinical Description of Torus Fracture

Definition

A torus fracture, also known as a buckle fracture, is a common type of injury in pediatric patients. It occurs when one side of the bone compresses and bulges outward, creating a raised area or "buckle" without a complete fracture through the bone. This type of fracture is often the result of a fall or direct impact, and it is most frequently seen in the long bones of children, such as the femur, radius, and ulna.

Location

The lower end of the right femur refers to the distal portion of the thigh bone, which connects to the knee joint. This area is particularly vulnerable to torus fractures due to its anatomical structure and the forces exerted during falls or accidents.

Symptoms

Patients with a torus fracture may present with:
- Localized pain: Tenderness around the knee or thigh area.
- Swelling: Inflammation may occur at the site of the injury.
- Limited mobility: Difficulty in moving the affected leg or bearing weight.
- Bruising: Discoloration may appear around the fracture site.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a torus fracture typically involves:
- Clinical examination: Assessment of symptoms and physical examination of the affected area.
- Imaging studies: X-rays are the primary imaging modality used to confirm the presence of a torus fracture. The characteristic appearance on X-rays includes a bulging of the cortex without a complete break.

Treatment

The management of a torus fracture generally includes:
- Immobilization: The affected limb is often immobilized using a splint or cast to prevent movement and allow for healing.
- Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended to alleviate discomfort.
- Follow-up care: Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing and ensure proper recovery.

Coding and Billing

The specific code S72.471 is used for billing and coding purposes in medical records. It is essential for healthcare providers to accurately document the type and location of the fracture to ensure appropriate treatment and reimbursement.

Additional Codes

• S72.471G: This code indicates a torus fracture of the lower end of the right femur with a subsequent complication, such as a delay in healing. This distinction is important for tracking the patient's recovery and any additional interventions that may be required.

Conclusion

In summary, the ICD-10 code S72.471 identifies a torus fracture of the lower end of the right femur, a common injury in children characterized by a buckling of the bone rather than a complete fracture. Proper diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care are crucial for effective recovery. Understanding the specifics of this diagnosis code aids healthcare professionals in providing appropriate care and ensuring accurate medical documentation.

The ICD-10 code S72.471 refers specifically to a torus fracture of the lower end of the right femur. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with this type of fracture is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.

Clinical Presentation

A torus fracture, also known as a buckle fracture, is a common type of injury, particularly in children. It typically occurs in the long bones, such as the femur, due to compressive forces that cause the bone to bulge or buckle without breaking completely.

Signs and Symptoms

1. Pain: Patients often present with localized pain at the site of the fracture, which may be exacerbated by movement or pressure on the affected area. The pain is usually sharp and can be severe, particularly in the acute phase of the injury[1].

2. Swelling: There is often noticeable swelling around the knee or thigh area, which can develop rapidly following the injury. This swelling is due to inflammation and fluid accumulation in response to the injury[1].

3. Bruising: Ecchymosis or bruising may be present, although it is less common in torus fractures compared to complete fractures. Bruising can indicate associated soft tissue injury[1].

4. Limited Range of Motion: Patients may exhibit a reduced range of motion in the knee joint due to pain and swelling. This limitation can affect the ability to bear weight on the affected leg[1].

5. Deformity: While torus fractures typically do not result in significant deformity, there may be a subtle change in the alignment of the leg, particularly if the fracture is associated with other injuries[1].

Patient Characteristics

• Age: Torus fractures are most commonly seen in children, particularly those aged 5 to 10 years. This demographic is more susceptible due to the pliability of their bones, which can bend and buckle under stress rather than break completely[1][2].

• Activity Level: These fractures often occur in active children who engage in sports or physical play, where falls or impacts are more likely to happen[2].

• Gender: There is no significant gender predisposition for torus fractures; however, boys may present slightly more frequently due to higher activity levels in certain age groups[2].

• Underlying Conditions: Children with conditions that affect bone density or strength, such as osteogenesis imperfecta or other metabolic bone diseases, may be at increased risk for torus fractures[2].

Conclusion

In summary, the clinical presentation of a torus fracture of the lower end of the right femur (ICD-10 code S72.471) typically includes pain, swelling, and limited range of motion, primarily affecting children due to their unique bone characteristics. Recognizing these signs and symptoms is essential for timely diagnosis and appropriate management, which often involves immobilization and monitoring for healing. Understanding patient characteristics can also aid in identifying those at higher risk for such injuries.

The ICD-10 code S72.471 refers specifically to a torus fracture of the lower end of the right femur. This type of fracture is characterized by a compression fracture that typically occurs in children, where the bone bends and buckles rather than breaking completely. Below are alternative names and related terms associated with this condition:

Alternative Names

1. Buckle Fracture: This term is commonly used interchangeably with torus fracture, particularly in pediatric cases, as it describes the same mechanism of injury where the bone deforms but does not break completely.
2. Greenstick Fracture: While not identical, this term is often associated with similar types of fractures in children, where one side of the bone bends and the other side breaks partially.
3. Compression Fracture: This term can describe the mechanism of injury involved in a torus fracture, although it is more commonly used for fractures in vertebrae.

Related Terms

1. Distal Femur Fracture: This term refers to fractures occurring at the lower end of the femur, which includes torus fractures but also encompasses other types of fractures.
2. Pediatric Fracture: Since torus fractures are most common in children, this term is relevant when discussing the demographic most affected by this type of injury.
3. Bone Fracture: A general term that encompasses all types of fractures, including torus fractures.
4. Intra-articular Fracture: While torus fractures are typically extra-articular, this term is relevant in discussions about fractures near joints, such as the knee, which is adjacent to the femur.

Clinical Context

Torus fractures are often treated conservatively, typically with immobilization, and they generally have a good prognosis due to the resilience of pediatric bones. Understanding these alternative names and related terms can aid in communication among healthcare professionals and enhance patient education regarding the nature of the injury.

In summary, the ICD-10 code S72.471 is associated with several alternative names and related terms that reflect the nature of the injury and its commonality in pediatric populations.

The diagnosis of a torus fracture, specifically for the ICD-10 code S72.471, which refers to a torus fracture of the lower end of the right femur, involves several clinical criteria and considerations. Here’s a detailed overview of the diagnostic criteria and relevant information regarding this type of fracture.

Understanding Torus Fractures

Definition

A torus fracture, also known as a buckle fracture, is a type of incomplete fracture commonly seen in children. It occurs when one side of the bone buckles upon itself without breaking the other side, typically due to compressive forces. This type of fracture is often associated with falls or trauma.

Common Characteristics

• Location: The fracture occurs at the lower end of the femur, which is the thigh bone, just above the knee joint.
• Age Group: Torus fractures are most prevalent in pediatric patients due to the flexibility of their bones compared to adults[1].
• Symptoms: Patients may present with localized pain, swelling, and tenderness around the knee area. There may also be limited range of motion due to discomfort[1].

Diagnostic Criteria

Clinical Evaluation

1. History of Trauma: A detailed history of the mechanism of injury is crucial. The clinician will assess whether there was a fall or direct impact that could have caused the fracture.
2. Physical Examination: The examination will focus on the affected limb, checking for signs of swelling, deformity, and tenderness. The range of motion will also be evaluated to determine any limitations due to pain[1].

Imaging Studies

1. X-rays: The primary diagnostic tool for identifying a torus fracture is an X-ray. The imaging will typically show a bulging or buckling of the cortex of the bone without a complete fracture line. In the case of the lower end of the right femur, the X-ray will help confirm the location and nature of the fracture[2].
2. Follow-up Imaging: In some cases, follow-up X-rays may be necessary to monitor healing and ensure that no complications arise, such as displacement or non-union of the fracture[2].

Differential Diagnosis

It is essential to differentiate a torus fracture from other types of fractures, such as:
- Complete Fractures: These involve a break through the entire bone and may require different management.
- Growth Plate Injuries: In children, injuries to the growth plate can have significant implications for future bone growth and development.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of a torus fracture of the lower end of the right femur (ICD-10 code S72.471) relies on a combination of clinical history, physical examination, and imaging studies, primarily X-rays. Understanding the characteristics of torus fractures is vital for appropriate management and treatment, which often involves conservative measures such as immobilization and pain management. If you suspect a torus fracture, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation to ensure proper diagnosis and care.

Torus fractures, also known as buckle fractures, are common in pediatric patients and occur when one side of the bone buckles upon itself without breaking the other side. The ICD-10 code S72.471 specifically refers to a torus fracture of the lower end of the right femur. Here’s a detailed overview of the standard treatment approaches for this type of fracture.

Understanding Torus Fractures

Definition and Characteristics

• Torus Fracture: This type of fracture is characterized by a compression of the bone, leading to a bulging or buckling effect. It typically occurs in the metaphysis of long bones, such as the femur, and is most prevalent in children due to the softness of their bones[1].
• Location: The lower end of the femur is near the knee joint, making it crucial for weight-bearing and mobility.

Standard Treatment Approaches

Initial Assessment

• Clinical Evaluation: A thorough physical examination is essential to assess the extent of the injury, including checking for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion in the knee and hip joints.
• Imaging: X-rays are typically performed to confirm the diagnosis of a torus fracture and to rule out more severe injuries, such as complete fractures or joint involvement[2].

Conservative Management

1. Immobilization:
   - Splinting or Casting: The primary treatment for a torus fracture is immobilization. A splint or a cast may be applied to keep the bone stable and prevent movement during the healing process. The duration of immobilization usually ranges from 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the patient's age and the fracture's severity[3].

2. Pain Management:
   - Analgesics: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be administered to manage pain and discomfort associated with the fracture[4].

3. Activity Modification:
   - Rest and Limited Weight Bearing: Patients are advised to limit weight-bearing activities during the healing period. Crutches may be recommended to assist with mobility while minimizing stress on the injured leg[5].

Follow-Up Care

• Regular Monitoring: Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor the healing process through repeat X-rays and clinical assessments. Adjustments to the treatment plan may be made based on the healing progress[6].
• Physical Therapy: Once the fracture has healed sufficiently, physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected leg[7].

Surgical Intervention

• Indications for Surgery: While most torus fractures heal well with conservative management, surgical intervention may be considered if there are complications, such as non-union or if the fracture is associated with significant displacement or joint involvement. However, this is rare for torus fractures[8].

Conclusion

Torus fractures of the lower end of the right femur (ICD-10 code S72.471) are typically managed conservatively through immobilization, pain management, and activity modification. Regular follow-up is essential to ensure proper healing, and physical therapy may be beneficial post-recovery. Surgical intervention is rarely necessary but may be considered in complicated cases. As always, treatment should be tailored to the individual patient's needs and circumstances, with close monitoring by healthcare professionals.

For further information or specific case management, consulting with an orthopedic specialist is recommended.