Nondisplaced longitudinal fracture of unsp patella, init

This code signifies a break in the kneecap that runs lengthwise, without any separation of the bone fragments. The fracture is contained within the skin, and this encounter represents the initial treatment phase for the injury.

Apply this code for patients presenting with a newly diagnosed, non-displaced fracture of the patella where the fracture line is oriented longitudinally. This is appropriate for the initial visit where definitive treatment, such as casting or splinting, is initiated for a closed injury.

• Ensure documentation specifies "nondisplaced" and "longitudinal" for the patellar fracture.
• Confirm the encounter is for the initial treatment of a closed fracture.
• If the laterality (left or right) of the patella is known, a more specific code should be used.