Smith's fracture of left radius, init for opn fx type I/2

This code signifies a fracture of the distal radius, specifically a Smith's fracture, affecting the left arm. It indicates that the fracture is open, meaning the skin was broken, and is classified as either Type I or Type II according to the Gustilo-Anderson classification. This code is used for the initial treatment of this injury.

Apply this code when documenting the first encounter for a patient presenting with an open Smith's fracture of the left radius, where the open nature is categorized as Type I or Type II. This would typically be used in emergency department visits, initial orthopedic consultations, or during the initial surgical repair.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "left" radius and "Smith's fracture" morphology.
• Verify the open fracture type (I or II) is explicitly stated or inferable from the clinical notes.
• This "B" encounter code is only for the initial phase of treatment; subsequent care will require different encounter characters.