Fx condylar process of mandible, unspecified side, init

This code signifies a break in the condylar process of the lower jawbone, which is the rounded projection that articulates with the temporal bone to form the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This specific code indicates that the fracture is not specified as left or right, and the skin overlying the fracture is intact (closed fracture).

Use this code for a patient presenting with a newly diagnosed fracture of the mandibular condyle where the laterality is not documented, and there is no open wound communicating with the fracture site. This is appropriate for the initial treatment phase of the injury. Documentation should clearly state "condylar process fracture," "closed," and lack specific side identification.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "closed fracture" to differentiate from open fractures (S02.611-).
• If laterality (left or right) is specified in the documentation, a more specific code (S02.610B-S02.610S) should be used.
• This "A" suffix indicates an initial encounter; subsequent care for the same fracture will require different seventh characters (e.g., D for subsequent encounter, S for sequela).