Displ commnt fx shaft of l fibula, 7thN

This code signifies a complex injury involving a comminuted fracture of the shaft of the left fibula that is displaced and has failed to heal (nonunion). The fracture is an open type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC, indicating significant soft tissue damage and exposure of the bone. This code is used for encounters following the initial treatment of the fracture.

Use this code for follow-up encounters for patients with a previously diagnosed displaced, comminuted open fracture (type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) of the left fibular shaft who are now experiencing nonunion. This would apply during subsequent visits for ongoing management, surgical planning for nonunion repair, or evaluation of complications related to the nonunion.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the open fracture type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC).
• Verify the fracture is of the shaft of the fibula and is left-sided.
• Confirm this is a "subsequent encounter" and not the initial treatment of the fracture.