Oth fx fifth metacarpal bone, left hand, init for opn fx

This code signifies an open fracture of the fifth metacarpal bone in the left hand, meaning the bone has broken and the skin has been compromised, exposing the bone to the outside environment. This type of injury often involves significant trauma and carries an increased risk of infection.

Apply this code for a patient presenting with an open fracture of their left small finger metacarpal, such as from a crush injury or a direct blow where the skin is lacerated over the fracture site. This code is appropriate for the initial treatment phase of the injury.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "open" fracture and the specific metacarpal involved (fifth).
• Verify laterality (left hand) is explicitly stated in the medical record.
• Remember the "B" seventh character indicates an initial encounter for this open fracture.