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Right hip fractures are among the most challenging injuries therapists manage not only because of the physical demands of rehabilitation, but also because of the precision required in documentation and coding. With the 2026 ICD-10 updates now in effect, using the correct right hip fracture ICD-10 code is more important than ever. Accurate coding supports clean claims, clear communication across the care team, and fewer reimbursement delays.
One of the most commonly used diagnosis codes in orthopedic and rehabilitation settings is S72.141A, which identifies a displaced intertrochanteric fracture of the right femur during the initial encounter. Understanding when and how to apply this code helps therapists document care confidently while staying compliant with payer requirements.
Understanding ICD-10 Code S72.141A
The ICD-10 code S72.141A describes a very specific injury and encounter type. It refers to a:
Displaced fracture
Intertrochanteric region
Right femur
Closed injury
Initial encounter (active treatment phase)
This level of specificity is exactly why ICD-10 coding matters. The code communicates not only where the fracture occurred, but also how severe it is and what stage of care the patient is currently in.
Where This Code Fits in the ICD-10 Structure
To understand why accuracy matters, it helps to see how this diagnosis fits within the broader ICD-10 system:
Chapter 19: Injury, poisoning, and certain other consequences of external causes
S70–S79: Injuries to the hip and thigh
S72: Fracture of femur
Within this category, S72.141A provides clarity for payers, providers, and auditors reviewing the patient record.
Why the Seventh Character Matters
The seventh character in ICD-10 coding is one of the most common sources of billing errors. It identifies the encounter type:
A – Initial encounter (active treatment)
D – Subsequent encounter with routine healing
B – Initial encounter for open fracture
Using the wrong seventh character can trigger claim denials, payment delays, or audit scrutiny. For therapists, this makes accurate encounter documentation just as important as the diagnosis itself.
When Therapists Should Use S72.141A
This code should be used when all of the following are true:
The fracture is located in the right intertrochanteric region
The fracture is displaced
The injury is closed
Imaging confirms the diagnosis
The patient is in the active treatment phase (post-surgical rehab, acute care, or early outpatient therapy)
If the patient has moved into routine healing, the encounter character must be updated accordingly.
Documentation Requirements Therapists Must Capture
Accurate use of the right hip fracture ICD-10 code depends on thorough documentation. Therapy notes should clearly reflect:
Laterality (right side)
Fracture classification and location
Displacement status
Closed versus open injury
Mechanism of injury (e.g., fall, trauma)
Imaging confirmation
Phase of care or encounter type
These details support medical necessity and protect against payer requests for additional information.
Exclusions and Coding Rules to Be Aware Of
Certain conditions cannot be coded alongside S72.141A, while others may be appropriate depending on the case.
Excludes1 (never coded together):
Traumatic amputation of hip or thigh (S78–)
Excludes2 (may be coded together if applicable):
Lower leg fractures (S82–)
Foot fractures (S92–)
Periprosthetic fractures (M97.0–)
Additional external cause codes or retained foreign body codes should be added when relevant.
Billing and Reimbursement Considerations
ecause S72.141A is both billable and highly specific, it supports:
Clean claim submission
Proper MS-DRG assignment
Reduced denial rates
Justification for therapy frequency and intensity
Using unspecified fracture codes increases audit risk and often leads to reimbursement delays. Accurate diagnosis coding protects both patient care and clinic revenue.
Therapist’s Clinical Takeaway
Managing right hip fractures requires coordination across physical therapy, occupational therapy, and interdisciplinary rehab teams. Coding is part of the clinical story, not just an administrative task.
Key reminders for therapists:
S72.141A applies only to displaced intertrochanteric fractures of the right femur during active treatment
Laterality, fracture detail, and encounter type must always be documented
Precise coding supports smoother transitions of care and cleaner reimbursement
Frequently Asked Questions About Right Hip Fracture ICD-10
Q1. What is the correct ICD-10 code for a right hip fracture?
The correct code depends on fracture type and encounter phase. S72.141A is used for a displaced intertrochanteric fracture of the right femur during an initial encounter.
Q2. When should therapists use S72.141A?
This code is appropriate when the patient is in active treatment and imaging confirms a displaced, closed intertrochanteric fracture on the right side.
Q3. What documentation supports accurate ICD-10 coding?
Laterality, fracture classification, displacement status, mechanism of injury, imaging confirmation, and encounter phase are all required.
Q4. Why is the seventh character important in ICD-10 codes?
The seventh character defines the encounter type and directly affects billing accuracy and claim approval.
Q5. How does accurate fracture coding affect reimbursement?
Correct coding reduces denials, supports proper payment, and strengthens audit readiness for therapy practices.
