Displ seg fx shaft of r fibula, init for opn fx type 3A/B/C

This code describes a severe fracture of the shaft of the right fibula, where the bone is broken into at least three pieces (segmental) and the broken ends are not properly aligned (displaced). Importantly, this is an open fracture, meaning the bone has broken through the skin, and it is classified as a Gustilo-Anderson Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC, indicating significant soft tissue damage and contamination. This code is used for the initial treatment of such an injury.

Use this code for a patient presenting for the first time with a complex, displaced segmental fracture of the right fibula shaft that has broken through the skin. This applies when the orthopedic surgeon documents a Gustilo-Anderson classification of IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC, signifying a high-energy injury with extensive soft tissue involvement. This code is appropriate for the initial surgical repair or management of this specific injury.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "segmental" and "displaced" for the fibula shaft fracture.
• Verify the Gustilo-Anderson classification (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) for the open fracture type is explicitly stated by the provider.
• Confirm this is the "initial encounter" for treatment of this specific fracture. Subsequent care will use different encounter codes.