Displ longitud fx l patella, 7thJ

This code signifies a displaced fracture running lengthwise through the left kneecap, which was initially an open fracture (meaning the bone broke through the skin) of a severe type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC). The patient is currently in a phase of treatment where the fracture is not healing as quickly as expected.

Use this code for follow-up encounters when a patient with a previously diagnosed severe open longitudinal fracture of the left patella is experiencing delayed union. This applies after the initial treatment phase, during ongoing management for slow healing.

• Ensure documentation specifies "delayed healing" for this subsequent encounter.
• Verify the fracture is explicitly described as "longitudinal" and "displaced" for the left patella.
• Confirm the original injury was an open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC.