Nondisp commnt fx l patella, subs for clos fx w delay heal

This code describes a left kneecap fracture that has broken into multiple pieces but remains in its normal anatomical alignment. The patient is in a later stage of care for this injury, and the fracture is not healing as quickly as expected, but the skin over the fracture site remains intact.

This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters where a patient with a previously diagnosed nondisplaced comminuted fracture of the left patella is being evaluated for delayed healing. This would apply to situations where the fracture has not united within the anticipated timeframe, and the treatment plan is being adjusted or monitored for this specific complication.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "nondisplaced," "comminuted," and "left patella."
• Verify that the encounter is for subsequent care and specifically addresses delayed healing of a closed fracture.
• Do not use for initial treatment, routine follow-up without delayed healing, or open fractures.