Disp fx of base of fourth MC bone, l hand, init for opn fx

This code signifies a fracture at the base of the fourth metacarpal bone in the left hand, where the bone fragments are no longer in their normal alignment. It specifically indicates an open fracture, meaning there is a break in the skin communicating with the fracture site. This injury typically results from direct trauma or a crushing force.

This code is appropriate for the initial treatment of a patient presenting with a newly diagnosed, displaced, open fracture of the base of the left fourth metacarpal. It is used when the patient is receiving active treatment for the fracture, such as surgical repair, casting, or splinting.

• Confirm documentation specifies "displaced" and "open" for accurate code assignment.
• Verify the fracture location is the "base" of the fourth metacarpal and on the "left" hand.
• Ensure this is the "initial encounter" for treatment of this specific fracture. Subsequent encounters for routine healing or follow-up would use a different seventh character.