Disp fx of distal phalanx of left ring finger, init

This code signifies a break in the outermost bone of the left ring finger, where the bone fragments are no longer in their normal alignment. This specific diagnosis indicates the initial treatment for a fracture that has not broken through the skin.

Apply this code when documenting the first encounter for a patient presenting with a displaced fracture of the distal phalanx of the left ring finger. This includes initial evaluation, imaging, and treatment planning for a closed fracture. It would be used, for example, when a patient presents to the emergency department after crushing their left ring finger in a door, resulting in a displaced fracture.

• Ensure documentation specifies "displaced" and "distal phalanx" of the "left ring finger."
• Confirm the encounter is the "initial encounter" for treatment of this specific fracture.
• Verify the fracture is "closed" (skin intact) before assigning this code.