Disp fx of base of fifth metacarpal bone, left hand, init

This code signifies a break in the base of the fifth metacarpal bone (the bone connecting the little finger to the wrist) in the left hand, where the bone fragments are no longer in their normal alignment. This is an acute injury and the skin over the fracture site remains intact.

Apply this code for a patient presenting with a newly diagnosed, displaced fracture at the base of their left fifth metacarpal. This is appropriate for the initial treatment encounter, such as in an emergency department or orthopedic clinic, for a closed fracture.

• Ensure documentation specifies "displaced" and "base of fifth metacarpal" for the left hand.
• Verify the encounter is for the initial treatment of the fracture.
• Confirm the fracture is "closed" (no open wound communicating with the fracture site).