Nondisp commnt fx l patella, 7thN

This code describes a left kneecap fracture that is broken into multiple pieces but remains in its normal anatomical position. It specifically indicates that the patient is in a later stage of care for a severe open fracture (Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) where the bone has failed to heal properly.

This code is used for follow-up encounters when a patient with a previously diagnosed severe open comminuted fracture of the left patella is experiencing nonunion. This would apply during ongoing treatment, such as cast changes, physical therapy, or surgical planning for nonunion, after the initial acute treatment phase.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the "subsequent encounter" for an open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC.
• Verify the fracture is explicitly stated as "nondisplaced" and "comminuted" for the left patella.
• Do not use for initial encounters or for fractures that are healing normally.