Disp fx of shaft of fourth MC bone, r hand, init for opn fx

This code signifies a break in the shaft (middle part) of the fourth metacarpal bone in the right hand, where the bone fragments are no longer in their normal alignment. It specifically indicates an open fracture, meaning the skin and soft tissues have been compromised, exposing the bone to the outside environment. This type of injury carries a higher risk of infection.

This code is appropriate for the initial treatment encounter of a patient presenting with a displaced open fracture of the shaft of their right fourth metacarpal. This includes initial surgical repair, wound debridement, and stabilization of the fracture. It would be used when the patient is first seen for this specific injury.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "displaced" and "open fracture" for the shaft of the fourth metacarpal.
• Verify laterality (right hand) is explicitly stated in the medical record.
• Confirm this is the initial encounter for this specific injury; subsequent care would require a different encounter character.