Sltr-haris Type III physl fx lower end humer, unsp arm, sqla

This code signifies a Salter-Harris Type III fracture affecting the growth plate at the distal end of the humerus, where the fracture line extends through the epiphysis and into the joint. This specific type of physeal fracture involves both the growth plate and the articular cartilage, indicating a more complex injury with potential for growth disturbance and joint involvement. The "sequela" designation indicates that this code is used for complications or conditions arising as a direct result of the initial fracture, after the acute phase of healing has passed.

This code is appropriate for documenting long-term complications, residual deformities, or chronic issues directly attributable to a previously sustained Salter-Harris Type III fracture of the lower humerus. Examples include growth arrest, angular deformity, nonunion, malunion, or chronic pain at the fracture site that is a direct consequence of the original injury. It should be used when the patient is no longer in the active treatment phase for the acute fracture.

• Always ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to the previous Salter-Harris Type III fracture.
• Do not use this code for the initial acute fracture; a different code for the acute injury would be assigned at that time.
• Specify laterality if known; "unspecified arm" should only be used when laterality is genuinely undocumented.