Nondisp fx of lateral malleolus of left fibula, init

This code signifies a break in the outer ankle bone (lateral malleolus) of the left leg, where the bone fragments remain in their normal anatomical position. It indicates that this is the first time the patient is being treated for this specific injury, and the skin over the fracture site is intact.

Use this code for patients presenting with a newly diagnosed, non-displaced fracture of the left lateral malleolus. This applies to initial evaluations in emergency departments, urgent care, or primary care settings, as well as the initial treatment phase by an orthopedic specialist. It is appropriate when there is no open wound communicating with the fracture.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "nondisplaced" and "left" lateral malleolus.
• Verify "initial encounter" for treatment of the fracture, not subsequent care.
• Confirm the fracture is "closed" (no open wound) to differentiate from open fractures.