Displ osteochon fx l patella, 7thN

This code describes a specific type of knee injury involving a displaced fracture of both bone and cartilage in the left kneecap, which was originally an open fracture (meaning the skin was broken). The "subsequent encounter" indicates that the patient is receiving ongoing care for this injury, and "nonunion" signifies that the bone fragments have failed to heal together after a significant period.

This code is appropriate for follow-up visits where a patient is being treated for a left patellar osteochondral fracture that has not healed. It specifically applies when the initial injury was a severe open fracture (Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) and the current encounter addresses the nonunion. This would include evaluations, management of complications related to nonunion, or planning for further intervention.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "left" patella and "displaced" osteochondral fracture.
• Verify that the original injury was an open fracture classified as Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC.
• Confirm that the current encounter is for treatment of a nonunion, not initial or routine healing.