Sltr-haris Type III physl fx lower end rad, unsp arm, sqla

This code signifies a Salter-Harris Type III fracture affecting the growth plate (physis) at the distal end of the radius. This specific type of fracture involves a break that extends from the growth plate through the epiphysis and into the joint. The "sequela" designation indicates that this code is used for conditions that are residual effects or complications of an initial injury, long after the acute phase has passed.

This code is appropriate for documenting the long-term effects or complications arising from a previously sustained Salter-Harris Type III physeal fracture of the distal radius. This includes conditions such as growth arrest, angular deformity, premature physeal closure, or chronic pain directly attributable to the old fracture. It should be used when the patient is no longer in the acute or active healing phase of the original injury.

• Always ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a past Salter-Harris Type III fracture of the distal radius.
• Do not use this code for the initial acute injury; a different code for the acute fracture would be assigned at that time.
• Specify laterality if known; "unspecified arm" should only be used when laterality is genuinely undocumented.