Fracture of alveolus of left mandible, 7thB

This code signifies a broken portion of the jawbone where the teeth are embedded, specifically on the left side of the lower jaw. The fracture is classified as "open," meaning there is a break in the skin or mucous membrane communicating with the fracture site. This code is used for the initial treatment phase of such an injury.

Apply this code for a patient presenting with an open fracture of the left mandibular alveolus who is receiving active treatment for the injury. Documentation should clearly state an open fracture involving the alveolar process of the left mandible and indicate that this is the first encounter for this specific injury. This code is appropriate for emergency department visits, initial surgical repair, or initial stabilization.

• Ensure documentation specifies "open" fracture; otherwise, an appropriate closed fracture code should be used.
• Verify the laterality (left mandible) is clearly documented to avoid miscoding.
• Confirm this is the initial encounter; subsequent care for the same injury will require a different encounter character (e.g., D for subsequent, S for sequela).