Nondisplaced longitudinal fracture of left patella, init

This code signifies a break in the left kneecap that runs lengthwise, where the bone fragments remain in their normal anatomical position. It indicates the initial treatment for this type of fracture, which has not broken through the skin.

Apply this code for a patient presenting with a newly diagnosed, closed, nondisplaced longitudinal fracture of the left patella. This is appropriate for the initial visit where definitive treatment, such as casting or splinting, is initiated.

• Ensure documentation specifies "nondisplaced" and "longitudinal" for accurate code assignment.
• Confirm the fracture is of the left patella; laterality is critical.
• The "A" seventh character indicates the initial encounter for active treatment.