Displ longitud fx r patella, 7thR

This code describes a previously treated, displaced fracture of the right patella that runs lengthwise, which was originally an open fracture of severe type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC). The current encounter addresses a complication where the bone has healed in an abnormal position or alignment.

This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters where a patient presents with a malunion of a previously sustained, displaced longitudinal open fracture of the right patella. This includes situations where surgical intervention or other treatment is being provided for the malunion itself.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "malunion" as the reason for the current encounter, not delayed healing or nonunion.
• Verify the original fracture was an open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC, and that it was displaced and longitudinal.
• Confirm laterality (right patella) is accurately documented.