Nondisp commnt fx l patella, 7thJ

This code describes a left patellar fracture that is broken into multiple fragments (comminuted) but remains in its normal anatomical position (nondisplaced). This specific code is used during a subsequent encounter for an open fracture (where the bone broke through the skin) of a severe type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) that is experiencing delayed healing.

Use this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a previously diagnosed and treated open, comminuted, nondisplaced fracture of the left patella. It is specifically applicable when documentation indicates that the fracture is not healing at the expected rate and is categorized as delayed healing. This code would be appropriate for clinic visits, imaging studies, or other interventions related to monitoring or managing the delayed union of this specific fracture type.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nondisplaced," "comminuted," and "left patella."
• Verify the original injury was an "open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC" and that the current encounter is for "delayed healing."
• Do not use this code for initial encounters, routine healing, or nonunion; specific codes exist for those scenarios.