Other fracture of unspecified patella, sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication or residual effect stemming from a previously sustained fracture of the patella, where the specific type of fracture is not further detailed, and the affected knee is unspecified. These sequelae can include chronic pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, or functional impairment that persists after the initial healing phase of the patellar fracture.

Apply this code when documenting conditions directly attributable to an old patellar fracture that has healed but continues to cause ongoing issues. This is appropriate for patients presenting with chronic symptoms or functional deficits clearly linked to a past patellar injury, where the initial fracture type was not specified in the medical record.

• Requires a seventh character of 'S' to indicate sequela, signifying a late effect.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a past patellar fracture, not an acute injury.
• Do not use for acute or subacute fractures; those require different seventh characters.