Incarcerated fracture of medial epicondyl of r humerus, init

This code signifies an avulsion fracture of the medial epicondyle of the right humerus, where the fractured fragment is trapped or "incarcerated." This typically occurs due to a strong pull from attached ligaments or muscles, often seen in throwing athletes or following elbow dislocation. The "incarcerated" aspect implies the fragment is displaced and lodged within the joint space or surrounding tissues.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states an avulsion fracture of the right humeral medial epicondyle that is incarcerated. This is appropriate for the initial treatment of a closed fracture, meaning there is no open wound communicating with the fracture site. It is commonly seen in pediatric patients following elbow trauma or dislocation.

• Ensure documentation specifies "incarcerated" for the avulsion fracture; otherwise, a non-incarcerated avulsion code may be more appropriate.
• Verify the laterality (right humerus) and the specific epicondyle (medial).
• Confirm this is the patient's initial encounter for this specific closed fracture. Subsequent encounters will require different seventh characters.