Oth intartic fx low end unsp rad, 7thN

This code signifies a specific type of fracture involving the lower end of the radius, where the break extends into the joint space. It's used for cases where the initial fracture was an open fracture (skin broken) of a severe type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) and has subsequently failed to heal properly, leading to a nonunion.

Apply this code for follow-up encounters when a patient presents with a previously treated open intraarticular fracture of the distal radius that has not united. This specifically applies to open fractures classified as Gustilo-Anderson type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC, indicating significant soft tissue damage. It's crucial for documenting the ongoing management of a complicated fracture healing process.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the original fracture was an open type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC.
• Verify the fracture location is the lower end of the radius and intraarticular involvement is noted.
• This code is for subsequent encounters; use the appropriate initial encounter code for the acute injury.