Multiple fractures of ribs, left side, init for opn fx

This code signifies the presence of multiple broken ribs located on the patient's left side. The fracture is classified as "open," meaning there is a wound that communicates with the fracture site, and this is the first time the patient is receiving treatment for this specific injury.

Apply this code for patients presenting with multiple left-sided rib fractures where the skin and soft tissue have been compromised, exposing the bone. This code is appropriate for the initial hospital admission or encounter for definitive treatment of these open fractures.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "multiple" ribs and "left side" to support this code.
• Verify the "open" nature of the fracture is explicitly stated or clearly implied by the wound description.
• Confirm this is the initial encounter for this specific injury; subsequent encounters will require a different seventh character.