ICD-10: S75.02

The ICD-10 code S75.02 specifically refers to a major laceration of the femoral artery, which is categorized under the broader classification of injuries to blood vessels. To accurately diagnose and code this condition, healthcare providers typically follow specific criteria and guidelines.

Diagnostic Criteria for S75.02

1. Clinical Presentation

• Symptoms: Patients may present with significant symptoms such as severe pain in the thigh, swelling, and possibly signs of hemorrhage. The presence of a pulsatile mass or a bruit may also indicate vascular injury.
• Physical Examination: A thorough examination is essential to assess for signs of vascular compromise, including diminished or absent pulses in the lower extremities, which may suggest arterial injury.

2. Imaging Studies

• Duplex Ultrasound: This non-invasive imaging technique is often used to evaluate blood flow and can help identify lacerations or disruptions in the arterial wall. It provides real-time images of the blood vessels and can assess the severity of the injury.
• CT Angiography: In cases where ultrasound results are inconclusive, a CT angiogram may be performed to visualize the femoral artery and assess for lacerations or other vascular injuries.

3. Injury Severity Assessment

• Classification of Injury: The severity of the laceration is classified based on the depth and extent of the injury. Major lacerations typically involve significant disruption of the arterial wall and may require surgical intervention.
• Associated Injuries: It is also important to evaluate for any associated injuries, such as fractures or soft tissue damage, which can complicate the clinical picture and influence treatment decisions.

4. Documentation and Coding Guidelines

• Accurate Documentation: Proper documentation of the injury's mechanism (e.g., trauma, surgical complication) and the specific findings from imaging studies is crucial for accurate coding.
• Coding Guidelines: According to the ICD-10-CM guidelines, the code S75.02 should be used when there is clear evidence of a major laceration of the femoral artery, supported by clinical findings and imaging results.

Conclusion

In summary, the diagnosis of a major laceration of the femoral artery (ICD-10 code S75.02) involves a combination of clinical assessment, imaging studies, and thorough documentation. Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate management and coding, ensuring that patients receive the necessary care for their vascular injuries. If further clarification or specific case examples are needed, consulting the latest coding manuals or clinical guidelines may provide additional insights.

When addressing the standard treatment approaches for ICD-10 code S75.02, which refers to a major laceration of the femoral artery, it is essential to understand the nature of the injury and the typical medical protocols involved in managing such a critical condition.

Understanding Femoral Artery Laceration

A laceration of the femoral artery is a serious injury that can lead to significant blood loss and potential limb ischemia. The femoral artery is a major blood vessel supplying blood to the lower limb, and any injury to it requires immediate medical attention. The severity of the laceration can vary, influencing the treatment approach.

Initial Assessment and Stabilization

1. Emergency Response

• Immediate Care: The first step in managing a major laceration of the femoral artery is to ensure the patient is stabilized. This includes controlling any external bleeding through direct pressure and positioning the patient to prevent shock.
• Airway, Breathing, Circulation (ABCs): Medical personnel will assess the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation, providing supplemental oxygen and intravenous fluids as necessary to maintain blood pressure and perfusion.

2. Diagnostic Imaging

• Imaging Studies: Once stabilized, imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT angiography may be performed to assess the extent of the injury and to evaluate for any associated vascular or soft tissue damage[1].

Surgical Intervention

3. Surgical Repair

• Exploratory Surgery: In cases of major laceration, surgical intervention is often required. An exploratory surgery will be performed to directly visualize the injury.
• Repair Techniques: Depending on the extent of the laceration, the surgeon may perform:
  • Primary Repair: If the laceration is clean and the edges can be approximated, primary suturing may be performed.
  • Vascular Grafting: In cases where the artery is significantly damaged or if there is a large defect, a vascular graft may be necessary to restore blood flow. This can involve using a synthetic graft or a segment of another blood vessel[2].

4. Postoperative Care

• Monitoring: After surgery, the patient will be closely monitored for signs of complications such as re-bleeding, infection, or thrombosis.
• Rehabilitation: Depending on the injury's severity and the surgical outcome, rehabilitation may be necessary to restore function to the affected limb.

Additional Considerations

5. Management of Complications

• Thromboembolic Events: Patients may be at risk for thromboembolic events post-surgery, necessitating anticoagulation therapy.
• Infection Control: Prophylactic antibiotics may be administered to prevent infection, especially in cases involving significant soft tissue injury[3].

6. Long-term Follow-up

• Regular Check-ups: Long-term follow-up is crucial to monitor the vascular health of the limb and ensure proper healing. This may include Doppler studies to assess blood flow and detect any potential complications early.

Conclusion

The management of a major laceration of the femoral artery (ICD-10 code S75.02) involves a comprehensive approach that includes immediate stabilization, surgical intervention, and careful postoperative care. Given the potential for serious complications, timely and effective treatment is critical to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients suffering from this type of injury. Continuous monitoring and rehabilitation play vital roles in the recovery process, emphasizing the need for a multidisciplinary approach in managing such complex cases.

References

1. Emergency Medical Service protocols for trauma management.
2. Surgical techniques for vascular repair and grafting.
3. Guidelines for postoperative care and infection prevention in vascular surgery.

The ICD-10 code S75.02 refers to a major laceration of the femoral artery, which is a significant injury that can have serious implications for a patient's health. Below is a detailed clinical description and relevant information regarding this condition.

Clinical Description

Definition

A major laceration of the femoral artery involves a severe cut or tear in the femoral artery, which is a critical blood vessel supplying blood to the lower limb. This type of injury can result from various traumatic events, including accidents, falls, or penetrating injuries such as gunshot wounds or stab wounds.

Anatomy of the Femoral Artery

The femoral artery is a major blood vessel located in the thigh. It is a continuation of the external iliac artery and runs down the thigh, branching into several arteries that supply blood to the leg and foot. Due to its location and size, injuries to the femoral artery can lead to significant blood loss and require immediate medical attention.

Symptoms

Patients with a major laceration of the femoral artery may present with:
- Severe bleeding: This can be external or internal, depending on the nature of the laceration.
- Swelling and bruising: Surrounding tissues may become swollen and discolored due to blood accumulation.
- Pain: Patients often experience intense pain in the thigh or groin area.
- Weakness or numbness: Reduced blood flow can lead to weakness or numbness in the leg.

Complications

If not treated promptly, a major laceration of the femoral artery can lead to:
- Hypovolemic shock: Significant blood loss can result in a life-threatening condition where the body does not have enough blood to function.
- Ischemia: Reduced blood flow can cause tissue death (necrosis) in the affected leg.
- Infection: Open wounds are susceptible to infections, which can complicate recovery.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves:
- Physical examination: Assessing the extent of the injury and symptoms.
- Imaging studies: Ultrasound, CT scans, or angiography may be used to evaluate the injury and blood flow.

Treatment

Management of a major laceration of the femoral artery often requires:
- Surgical intervention: Repairing the artery through suturing or grafting may be necessary to restore blood flow and control bleeding.
- Blood transfusions: To manage significant blood loss.
- Antibiotics: To prevent or treat infections.

Coding and Documentation

The ICD-10 code S75.02 is specifically used for billing and documentation purposes in healthcare settings. It is essential for healthcare providers to accurately document the nature of the injury, treatment provided, and any complications that arise to ensure proper coding and reimbursement.

Related Codes

• S75.01: Laceration of the superficial femoral artery.
• S75.03: Laceration of the popliteal artery.

In summary, a major laceration of the femoral artery (ICD-10 code S75.02) is a critical medical condition that requires immediate attention due to the potential for severe complications. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate surgical intervention are vital for patient recovery and to prevent life-threatening outcomes.

The ICD-10 code S75.02 refers to a major laceration of the femoral artery, specifically in the right leg. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with this condition is crucial for effective diagnosis and management.

Clinical Presentation

A major laceration of the femoral artery typically occurs due to traumatic events such as accidents, falls, or penetrating injuries. The clinical presentation can vary based on the severity of the injury and the promptness of medical intervention.

Signs and Symptoms

1. Hemorrhage:
   - External Bleeding: Patients may present with significant external bleeding from the wound site, which can be profuse and life-threatening.
   - Internal Bleeding: If the laceration leads to internal bleeding, signs may include abdominal distension or signs of shock.

2. Shock:
   - Symptoms of hypovolemic shock may manifest, including rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, pale or clammy skin, and confusion or altered mental status.

3. Pain:
   - Patients often report severe pain in the affected leg, which may be exacerbated by movement or pressure.

4. Pulses:
   - Diminished or absent pulses in the affected leg may indicate compromised blood flow due to the laceration.

5. Skin Changes:
   - The skin over the affected area may appear discolored (pallor or cyanosis) due to inadequate blood supply.

6. Neurological Symptoms:
   - In severe cases, patients may experience numbness or weakness in the leg due to nerve damage or compromised blood flow.

Patient Characteristics

1. Demographics:
   - Major lacerations of the femoral artery can occur in individuals of any age, but they are more common in younger adults due to higher rates of trauma from accidents or violence.

2. Risk Factors:
   - Patients with a history of high-risk activities (e.g., sports, construction work) or those living in areas with higher rates of violence may be more susceptible to such injuries.

3. Comorbidities:
   - Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as vascular diseases, diabetes, or clotting disorders may experience more severe complications following a femoral artery laceration.

4. Mechanism of Injury:
   - The nature of the injury (e.g., blunt trauma vs. penetrating trauma) can influence the clinical presentation and management. For instance, stab wounds may lead to more localized damage, while blunt trauma may cause extensive tissue injury.

Conclusion

A major laceration of the femoral artery (ICD-10 code S75.02) is a critical condition that requires immediate medical attention. The clinical presentation is characterized by significant hemorrhage, pain, and potential signs of shock. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with this injury is essential for healthcare providers to ensure timely and effective treatment, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Prompt recognition and intervention can be life-saving, highlighting the importance of awareness in both clinical and emergency settings.

The ICD-10 code S75.02 specifically refers to a "Major laceration of femoral artery." Understanding alternative names and related terms for this condition can be beneficial for healthcare professionals involved in coding, billing, and clinical documentation. Below is a detailed overview of alternative names and related terms associated with this ICD-10 code.

Alternative Names

1. Femoral Artery Laceration: This term directly describes the injury to the femoral artery, emphasizing the nature of the damage.
2. Laceration of the Femoral Artery: A more descriptive phrase that outlines the specific anatomical location and type of injury.
3. Major Femoral Artery Injury: This term highlights the severity of the injury, which is classified as "major" in the ICD-10 coding system.
4. Traumatic Femoral Artery Injury: This term can be used to indicate that the injury was caused by trauma, which is often the case with lacerations.

Related Terms

1. Vascular Injury: A broader term that encompasses injuries to blood vessels, including arteries and veins, which can include lacerations.
2. Arterial Laceration: This term refers to any laceration involving an artery, not limited to the femoral artery.
3. Hemorrhage: While not synonymous, hemorrhage can be a consequence of a major laceration of the femoral artery, as it may lead to significant blood loss.
4. Trauma: A general term that can refer to any physical injury, including those affecting the femoral artery.
5. Surgical Repair of Femoral Artery: This term may be relevant in the context of treatment following a major laceration.

Clinical Context

In clinical settings, it is essential to accurately document and code injuries like S75.02 to ensure proper treatment and reimbursement. The terminology used can vary based on the context, such as emergency medicine, surgical documentation, or coding practices. Understanding these alternative names and related terms can aid in effective communication among healthcare providers and improve the accuracy of medical records.

In summary, the ICD-10 code S75.02 for major laceration of the femoral artery can be described using various alternative names and related terms that reflect the nature and implications of the injury. This knowledge is crucial for accurate coding and effective patient care.