Barton's fracture of unspecified radius, sequela

This code describes a sequela, or late effect, resulting from a Barton's fracture of the radius. A Barton's fracture is an intra-articular fracture of the distal radius, involving the dorsal or volar rim, with associated carpal displacement. The "sequela" indicates that the patient is experiencing a residual condition or complication from a previously healed or treated Barton's fracture.

Use this code when documenting a long-term complication or chronic condition directly attributable to a past Barton's fracture of the radius, where the specific side (left or right) is not documented. Examples include chronic pain, stiffness, malunion, nonunion, or post-traumatic arthritis in the wrist following the original injury. This code is appropriate when the initial fracture has healed, and the patient is now being treated for the lasting effects.

• Always sequence the sequela code first, followed by a code describing the specific residual condition (e.g., M19.031 for primary osteoarthritis of the wrist).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a previous Barton's fracture.
• Do not use this code for the initial treatment of an acute Barton's fracture; use the appropriate acute fracture code.