Displ transverse fx shaft of l tibia, 7thJ

This code signifies a fracture of the main part of the left shin bone that has broken through the skin, exposing the bone and surrounding tissues (an open fracture of Gustilo type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC). The broken bone fragments are not properly aligned, and the fracture is not healing at the expected rate. This code is used for follow-up care after the initial treatment of the injury.

Use this code for patients presenting for ongoing management of a previously diagnosed displaced open transverse shaft fracture of the left tibia, specifically when documentation indicates delayed healing. This applies to subsequent visits for wound care, cast changes, physical therapy, or surgical intervention related to the delayed union of the fracture.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "delayed healing" for this subsequent encounter.
• Verify the fracture is explicitly described as "displaced" and "transverse" of the "shaft" of the "left tibia."
• Confirm the open fracture type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) is documented to support the specificity of the code.