Nondisplaced comminuted fracture of unsp patella, init

This code signifies a fracture of the kneecap that has broken into multiple fragments but where the bone pieces remain in their normal anatomical alignment. The specific patella (left or right) is not documented, and this code is for the initial treatment phase of a closed fracture, meaning the skin is intact over the injury.

Apply this code when documentation confirms a comminuted patellar fracture without displacement, and the laterality is not specified. This is appropriate for the initial encounter for treatment of such an injury, prior to any definitive surgical or non-surgical management.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "nondisplaced" and "comminuted" for the patella.
• Only use this code for the initial treatment of a closed fracture; subsequent care or open fractures require different codes.
• If laterality (left or right patella) is specified, a more specific code should be selected.