Nondisp longitud fx l patella, subs for clos fx w malunion

This code describes a left kneecap fracture that runs lengthwise (longitudinal) and has not shifted out of alignment. At this stage, the fracture is healing incorrectly, resulting in a malunion, and the patient is receiving follow-up care for this closed injury.

Use this code for a patient presenting for ongoing management of a previously diagnosed nondisplaced longitudinal fracture of the left patella that is now demonstrating signs of malunion. This applies to encounters where the initial treatment has concluded, and the focus is on addressing the improper healing.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "malunion" and specifies the left patella.
• Verify the fracture type is "longitudinal" and "nondisplaced" from initial injury notes.
• This "P" seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter for a closed fracture with malunion, not initial treatment or routine healing.