Fracture oth prt scapula, unsp shoulder, init for opn fx

This code signifies a break in any part of the scapula, excluding the anatomical neck, glenoid cavity, or acromial process, where the specific location within the scapula is not documented. The fracture is an open type, meaning the skin and soft tissue overlying the fracture site have been compromised, and this encounter represents the initial treatment phase. The affected shoulder is not specified.

Use this code for a patient presenting with an open fracture of the scapula where the precise anatomical site (e.g., body, spine, coracoid process) is not detailed in the medical record. This code is appropriate for the initial hospital admission or emergency department visit for definitive treatment of the open fracture.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "open fracture" and that this is the initial encounter for treatment.
• If the specific part of the scapula is documented (e.g., body, spine), a more specific code from the S42.1- series should be used.
• Always sequence this code first when it represents the primary reason for the encounter.