Fracture of ramus of left mandible, 7thD

This code indicates a fracture of the lower jawbone's posterior vertical portion on the left side, specifically when the patient is receiving follow-up care during the normal healing process. It signifies that the initial treatment for the fracture has been rendered, and the bone is progressing as expected towards recovery.

Use this code for follow-up visits where a patient is being monitored for a healing left mandibular ramus fracture. Documentation should clearly state the fracture location, the left side, and indicate that the encounter is for routine follow-up during the healing phase. This code is appropriate when no complications or delayed healing are noted.

• Ensure documentation specifies "left" mandible and "ramus" to differentiate from other mandibular fracture sites.
• The "D" seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter for routine healing; do not use for initial treatment or encounters for delayed/nonunion.
• Verify that the encounter is for routine healing and not for complications, which would require a different seventh character.