Fracture of condylar process of left mandible, 7thB

This code signifies a break in the condylar process of the left lower jawbone, specifically an open fracture where the skin and soft tissue are compromised, exposing the bone. This injury often results from direct trauma to the jaw or a fall.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates an open fracture of the left mandibular condyle in a patient presenting for initial treatment. This includes emergency department visits, initial surgical repair, or the first encounter for definitive management of the fracture. Supporting documentation should detail the location, laterality, and open nature of the fracture.

• Ensure documentation specifies "open" fracture; otherwise, an appropriate closed fracture code should be used.
• Verify laterality (left) is explicitly stated in the medical record.
• This "B" encounter character indicates the initial treatment phase; subsequent encounters will require different seventh characters.