Displ commnt fx shaft of unsp femr, 7thM

This code signifies a complex break in the middle part of the thigh bone (femur) that has shattered into multiple pieces and is no longer in its proper alignment. It specifically indicates that this is not the initial treatment for the injury, and the fracture is an open type I or II, meaning there's a wound communicating with the fracture site, and it has failed to heal properly.

Apply this code when documenting follow-up care for a patient with a comminuted, displaced open femoral shaft fracture (Type I or II) that has not achieved bony union. This would be used during subsequent encounters after the initial treatment, such as for ongoing wound care, assessment of nonunion, or preparation for revision surgery.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "subsequent encounter" and "nonunion" for an open fracture type I or II.
• Verify the fracture is indeed of the shaft and not another part of the femur.
• This code requires an additional code for the specific type of open fracture (e.g., S72.353B for initial encounter).