Nondisp commnt fx l patella, 7thH

This code describes a left kneecap fracture that is broken into multiple pieces but remains in its anatomical position. It specifically indicates that the fracture was initially open (meaning the skin was broken) and is now in a later stage of healing, but the healing process is taking longer than expected.

This code is used when a patient presents for follow-up care of a previously treated open comminuted fracture of the left patella, and the physician documents that the healing is delayed. This applies to encounters after the initial treatment, such as cast changes, wound care, or physical therapy, when the fracture is not yet fully united.

• Ensure documentation specifies "nondisplaced," "comminuted," and "left patella."
• Verify the original injury was an "open fracture type I or II" and that healing is explicitly noted as "delayed."
• This seventh character "H" indicates a subsequent encounter for delayed healing; do not use for initial treatment or routine healing.