Nondisp longitud fx unsp patella, 7thC

This code describes a fracture of the kneecap that runs lengthwise (longitudinal) and where the bone fragments remain in their normal alignment (nondisplaced). It specifically indicates an open fracture, meaning the skin and soft tissues are significantly damaged, exposing the bone, and is classified as a severe type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) according to the Gustilo-Anderson classification. This is for the initial treatment of such an injury to an unspecified patella.

Use this code for a patient presenting for the first time with a patellar fracture that is documented as longitudinal and nondisplaced. The medical record must clearly specify an open fracture of Gustilo-Anderson type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC. This code is appropriate when the specific patella (left or right) is not documented.

• Ensure documentation specifies "nondisplaced" and "longitudinal" for the patellar fracture.
• Verify the open fracture type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) is explicitly stated in the physician's notes.
• Only use this code for the initial encounter for treatment of the fracture.