Nondisp transverse fx r patella, 7thR

This code signifies a right kneecap fracture that runs horizontally across the bone, has not shifted out of alignment, and is currently healing poorly after being an open fracture with significant soft tissue damage (Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC). The "subsequent encounter" indicates that the patient is receiving follow-up care for this previously treated injury, which is now complicated by malunion.

Use this code for a patient presenting for ongoing management of a right patellar fracture that was initially an open fracture (Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) and is now demonstrating signs of malunion. This applies to follow-up visits where the primary focus is addressing the suboptimal healing of the fracture.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "malunion" as the complication of the fracture healing.
• Verify the initial injury was an open fracture of Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC.
• Confirm the encounter is for subsequent care, not the initial treatment or active healing without complication.