Oth intartic fx low end unsp rad, 7thR

This code signifies a malunion of an intraarticular fracture involving the distal radius, specifically an open fracture (Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) that has undergone a subsequent encounter. It indicates that the bone fragments have healed in a misaligned position, potentially affecting joint function.

Apply this code for patients presenting with a previously treated open intraarticular distal radius fracture where imaging confirms malunion. This is appropriate for follow-up visits addressing the complications of the healed but misaligned fracture. Ensure the original fracture was classified as an open Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC.

• Confirm documentation specifies "malunion" and not "nonunion" or "delayed union."
• Verify the original fracture was an open Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC.
• This code is for subsequent encounters; an initial encounter for the malunion would use a different code.