Displaced pilon fracture of left tibia, init for clos fx

This code signifies a fracture of the distal end of the left tibia, specifically involving the weight-bearing surface of the ankle joint (pilon fracture), where the bone fragments are no longer in their normal alignment. It indicates that the skin over the fracture site remains intact, and this is the first time the patient is receiving treatment for this injury.

Use this code for a patient presenting with a newly diagnosed, closed pilon fracture of the left tibia that requires initial treatment, such as reduction and casting or surgical repair. This applies when imaging confirms displacement of the fracture fragments.

• Ensure documentation specifies "left" tibia and "displaced" to support this code.
• Confirm the fracture is "closed" (skin intact) and this is the "initial encounter" for treatment.
• Look for associated codes for any open wounds, nonunion, or malunion if applicable in subsequent encounters.