Oth physeal fracture of lower end of humerus, unsp arm, init

This code signifies a fracture affecting the growth plate (physis) at the lower end of the humerus, the long bone of the upper arm. The specific type of physeal fracture is not further detailed, and the affected arm is not specified. This code is used for the initial treatment of a closed fracture, meaning the skin remains intact.

This code is appropriate for documenting the initial encounter for a pediatric patient presenting with a growth plate fracture at the distal humerus when the exact Salter-Harris classification is not yet determined or documented. It is also used when the medical record does not specify whether the left or right arm is affected.

• Ensure "initial encounter" is appropriate for the patient's current visit.
• Verify the fracture is indeed closed; if open, a different code is required.
• If later documentation specifies the Salter-Harris type or affected arm, a more specific code should be used for subsequent encounters.