Sltr-haris Type IV physl fx low end rad, unsp arm, 7thP

This code describes a specific type of growth plate fracture (Salter-Harris Type IV) affecting the lower part of the radius bone in the forearm, where the fracture has healed incorrectly (malunion). This particular code is used during a subsequent encounter, meaning the patient is returning for follow-up care related to this previously treated fracture with the identified malunion. The arm affected is not specified in this code.

Use this code when documenting follow-up care for a patient with a known Salter-Harris Type IV fracture of the distal radius that has healed with malunion. This applies to scenarios such as assessing the functional impact of the malunion, planning corrective surgery, or monitoring ongoing symptoms. It is appropriate when the initial treatment for the fracture has concluded, and the malunion is the focus of the current encounter.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "malunion" and specifies the Salter-Harris Type IV classification for the distal radius.
• Verify that the encounter is "subsequent" and not an initial treatment for the fracture.
• If the arm (left or right) is specified in the medical record, a more specific code should be chosen.