Displaced transverse fracture of left patella, sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication or late effect resulting from a previously sustained fracture of the left patella, specifically a transverse type that was displaced. It indicates that the initial injury has healed, but the patient is now experiencing residual issues directly attributable to that past fracture.

This code is appropriate when documenting conditions such as chronic pain, limited range of motion, malunion, nonunion, or post-traumatic arthritis in the left knee, where these issues are a direct consequence of a prior displaced transverse patellar fracture. It should be used after the initial healing phase of the fracture has concluded.

• Always sequence this code after the code describing the specific sequela (e.g., M25.562 for chronic left knee pain).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to the previous displaced transverse fracture of the left patella.
• Do not use this code for the initial treatment of the fracture or during the active healing phase; use appropriate acute fracture codes instead.