Displ transverse fx r patella, 7thN

This code signifies a right patellar fracture that runs across the bone (transverse) and has shifted out of its normal alignment. It specifically indicates that the fracture was initially an open fracture of a severe type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) and has now failed to heal properly, resulting in a nonunion.

This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters where a patient is being treated for a previously diagnosed displaced transverse open fracture of the right patella that has not united. This includes situations where surgical intervention for nonunion is being planned or performed, or during ongoing conservative management for the nonunion.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the initial open fracture type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC).
• Verify the fracture is of the right patella and is transverse and displaced.
• This code is for subsequent encounters; an initial encounter code would be used for the acute injury.