Type III occipital condyle fracture, right side, 7thB

This code signifies a specific fracture of the occipital condyle, which is the bony protrusion at the base of the skull that articulates with the top vertebra of the spine. A Type III fracture involves an avulsion injury where the alar ligament pulls off a fragment of the occipital condyle, often associated with rotational head injuries. This particular code specifies the fracture is on the right side and is an open fracture, meaning there is a break in the skin or mucous membrane leading to the fracture site.

Use this code for a patient presenting with an acute, newly diagnosed Type III occipital condyle fracture on the right side, where the fracture is open. Documentation should clearly state the fracture type (Type III), laterality (right), and confirm it is an open fracture, typically noted in the emergency department or initial inpatient admission notes. This code is appropriate for the initial treatment phase of the injury.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "Type III" for the occipital condyle fracture; other types (I, II) have different codes.
• Verify laterality (right) is clearly documented. If left or bilateral, a different code is required.
• Confirm the "open" nature of the fracture. If closed, a different code without "EB" is appropriate.