Closed fracture of nasal bones

This code signifies a break in the bony structure of the nose that has not resulted in an open wound communicating with the fracture site. It typically involves the nasal bones, which form the bridge of the nose. This injury often results from direct trauma to the face.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a closed fracture of the nasal bones, often diagnosed via physical examination and confirmed by imaging such as X-rays. This code is appropriate for initial encounters for such injuries.

• Ensure documentation specifies "closed" to differentiate from open fractures.
• Do not use for fractures involving the nasal septum or other facial bones; these have distinct codes.
• Consider external cause codes (E-codes) to describe the circumstances of the injury.