Displ commnt fx l patella, 7thR

Displaced comminuted fracture of left patella, subsequent encounter for open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC with malunion

📋Clinical Description

This code signifies a complex, multi-fragmented fracture of the left kneecap that has shifted from its normal position and is currently healing improperly (malunion). It specifically indicates that the initial injury was an open fracture, classified as type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC, implying significant soft tissue damage and potential contamination.

🎯When to Use

This code is appropriate for subsequent encounters when a patient is being treated for a malunion of a previously sustained displaced comminuted open fracture of the left patella. This includes follow-up visits, rehabilitation, or planning for corrective surgery related to the malunion.

💡Coding Tips

Ensure documentation clearly specifies "malunion" and not "nonunion" or "routine healing."
Verify the initial fracture was indeed an open fracture, type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC, as this impacts code selection.
Confirm the laterality is "left" and the fracture is "comminuted" and "displaced."

AI-generated reference — verify against official guidelines

Code Hierarchy

▲S82.042Displaced comminuted fracture of left patella

S82.042R(current)

Crosswalks

733.81ApproxICD-9

Same Category

S82Fracture of lower leg, including ankle S82.0Fracture of patella S82.00Unspecified fracture of patella S82.001Unspecified fracture of right patella S82.001AUnsp fracture of right patella, init for clos fx