Salter-Harris Type IV physeal fracture of l calcaneus, 7thG

This code signifies a Salter-Harris Type IV fracture affecting the growth plate of the left heel bone (calcaneus). A Type IV fracture involves the epiphysis, physis, and metaphysis, indicating a more complex injury. The "subsequent encounter" aspect specifies that this code is used when the patient is receiving follow-up care for this fracture, and the healing process is not progressing as expected (delayed healing).

Apply this code when a patient presents for ongoing treatment of a previously diagnosed Salter-Harris Type IV fracture of the left calcaneus, and the physician documents that the fracture is experiencing delayed healing. This would include scenarios such as cast changes, physical therapy, or repeat imaging to monitor healing progress when the expected healing timeline has been exceeded.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "left" calcaneus and "delayed healing" for accurate code assignment.
• Verify that the encounter is for follow-up care, not the initial treatment of the fracture.
• Do not use this code if the fracture is healing normally or if it is a nonunion or malunion; separate codes exist for those conditions.