Displ seg fx shaft of rad, l arm, 7thQ

This code describes a situation where a patient has a displaced fracture in the middle section (shaft) of their left radius bone. Importantly, this is a subsequent encounter for an open fracture (Type I or II), and the fracture has healed incorrectly, resulting in a malunion.

Use this code when documenting follow-up care for a patient who previously sustained an open fracture of the left radial shaft, and imaging or clinical assessment confirms that the bone has healed in an anatomically incorrect position (malunion). This code is appropriate for ongoing management, evaluation of the malunion, or planning for corrective procedures.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "left arm" and "shaft of radius" to differentiate from other forearm fractures.
• Verify that the original injury was an "open fracture type I or II" and that the current encounter is for a "malunion."
• This "Q" seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter for a malunion, so ensure the patient is past the initial healing phase.