Displ oblique fx shaft of humerus, unsp arm, init for opn fx

This code signifies a fracture of the main part of the humerus (upper arm bone) that is angled, has shifted out of its normal alignment, and involves a break in the skin or an open wound communicating with the fracture site. The specific arm (left or right) is not documented, and this code is used for the initial treatment of the injury.

Use this code for a patient presenting for the first time with an open, oblique fracture of the humeral shaft where the laterality (left or right arm) is not specified in the medical record. This applies to the initial surgical repair or other definitive treatment of the fracture.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "open fracture" and "initial encounter."
• Verify that the fracture is specifically of the "shaft" and described as "oblique."
• If laterality (left or right) is documented, a more specific code should be chosen.