Open fracture of pubis

This code signifies a break in the pubic bone where the skin and underlying soft tissue are also compromised, exposing the fracture site to the external environment. This type of injury carries a higher risk of infection compared to a closed fracture due to the direct communication with the outside.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states an "open" fracture of the pubis. This typically occurs following high-impact trauma such as motor vehicle accidents or falls from significant heights. Documentation should clearly describe the open nature of the wound, often including details of lacerations or avulsions over the pubic area.

• Differentiate carefully between "open" and "closed" fractures; this code is only for open injuries.
• Always review operative reports and emergency department notes for specific details regarding the wound's integrity.
• Ensure laterality (left, right, bilateral) is not specified for this code, as it's a general pubic fracture.