Disp fx of shaft of third metacarpal bone, left hand, init

This code signifies a break in the middle portion (shaft) of the third metacarpal bone in the left hand, where the bone fragments are no longer in their normal alignment. This type of fracture typically results from direct trauma or a crushing injury to the hand.

Apply this code for a patient presenting with a newly diagnosed, displaced fracture of the shaft of their left third metacarpal bone. This is appropriate for the initial visit where the fracture is identified and treatment planning begins, assuming the skin over the fracture site remains intact (closed fracture).

• Ensure documentation specifies "displaced" and "shaft" for accurate code selection.
• Verify the laterality (left hand) and the specific metacarpal (third) are clearly documented.
• The "A" in the seventh character indicates an initial encounter for a closed fracture; choose appropriate subsequent characters for follow-up care or open fractures.