Displ spiral fx shaft of ulna, unsp arm, 7thJ

This code signifies a spiral fracture of the shaft of the ulna, where the bone fragments are no longer in their normal alignment. It specifically applies to an open fracture (meaning the skin was broken) that was initially severe (Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) and is now experiencing delayed healing during a subsequent encounter.

This code is appropriate for follow-up visits where a patient with a previously treated severe open spiral ulnar shaft fracture is showing slower-than-expected bone healing. It would be used when the patient is still under active treatment for the fracture, such as cast changes, wound care, or monitoring for nonunion.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "delayed healing" for this subsequent encounter.
• Verify the original fracture was indeed an open fracture classified as Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC.
• Do not use for initial encounters or for fractures that are healing normally.