Sltr-haris Type IV physl fx low end unsp tibia, 7thP

This code signifies a Salter-Harris Type IV fracture affecting the growth plate at the distal end of an unspecified tibia, which has not healed correctly and is now in a state of malunion. This specific type of physeal fracture involves both the epiphysis and metaphysis, crossing the physis. The "P" in the seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter for this fracture with malunion.

Apply this code when documenting follow-up care for a patient who previously sustained a Salter-Harris Type IV fracture of the distal tibia, and radiographic or clinical assessment confirms the fracture has healed in an anatomically incorrect position. This is appropriate for ongoing management, evaluation of the malunion, or planning for corrective procedures.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "malunion" and not "nonunion" or "routine healing."
• Verify the fracture is indeed Salter-Harris Type IV, involving both epi- and metaphysis.
• Confirm this is a subsequent encounter for the fracture, not the initial treatment.