Oth fx of low end unsp rad, 7thR

This code signifies a previously sustained fracture of the lower end of the radius, where the bone is healing in an abnormal or misaligned position (malunion). Specifically, it applies to open fractures that were initially classified as Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC, indicating significant soft tissue damage and bone exposure. This code is used during the recovery phase after initial treatment.

This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters when a patient is being treated for complications arising from a malunited open fracture of the distal radius. It is used when the malunion itself is the focus of the current encounter, such as for evaluation, planning for corrective surgery, or ongoing management of symptoms related to the malunion.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "malunion" and that the initial fracture was an "open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC."
• Verify this is a "subsequent encounter" and not the initial treatment for the fracture or a nonunion.
• Always sequence this code after the primary reason for the encounter if the malunion is a secondary issue.