Displ suprcndl fx w intrcndl extn low end unsp femr, 7thH

This code signifies a complex fracture involving the lower end of the femur, specifically a supracondylar fracture that extends into the joint (intracondylar). The fracture fragments are not in their normal anatomical alignment (displaced), and the injury was initially an open fracture (skin broken) of type I or II. This particular code is used for follow-up care when the bone is not healing at the expected rate.

Apply this code during subsequent encounters for patients with a previously diagnosed displaced supracondylar fracture with intracondylar extension of the distal femur, where the initial injury was an open fracture (Type I or II). This code is specifically for situations where the healing process is prolonged beyond the typical timeframe, indicating delayed union. It would be used for follow-up appointments, imaging studies, or procedures related to the ongoing management of the delayed healing.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "delayed healing" for this subsequent encounter.
• Verify the original injury was an open fracture type I or II; otherwise, a different S72.46- code would be appropriate.
• Do not use for initial treatment or for nonunion, which has a separate and more severe classification.