Sltr-haris Type IV physl fx lower end of unsp tibia, sequela

This code signifies a Salter-Harris Type IV fracture affecting the growth plate at the distal end of an unspecified tibia, with the patient now experiencing a long-term complication or residual effect from the original injury. This type of fracture involves both the epiphysis and metaphysis, extending through the physis, and carries a higher risk of growth disturbance. The "sequela" designation indicates that the acute phase of the injury has passed, and the current encounter addresses a persistent issue related to the fracture.

Use this code for encounters where a patient presents with a chronic problem directly attributable to a previously sustained Salter-Harris Type IV fracture of the distal tibia. Examples include ongoing pain, limb length discrepancy, angular deformity, or premature physeal closure resulting from the original injury. This code is appropriate when the focus of the visit is managing these lasting effects, not the initial acute fracture.

• Always use an additional code to specify the nature of the sequela (e.g., M21.62- for limb length discrepancy, M92.26- for other specified osteochondropathies of tibia).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to the prior Salter-Harris Type IV fracture.
• Do not use this code for the initial treatment of the acute fracture; use acute fracture codes for that scenario.