Displ commnt fx shaft of rad, unsp arm, 7thC

This code signifies a severe fracture of the radius bone in the forearm, characterized by multiple bone fragments (comminuted) and a misalignment of the broken ends (displaced). It specifically applies to an open fracture where the bone has broken through the skin, indicating significant soft tissue damage, classified as Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC. The affected arm is not specified.

Use this code for initial encounters with patients presenting with a comminuted and displaced fracture of the radial shaft that is clearly documented as an open fracture of Gustilo-Anderson Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC. This typically occurs following high-energy trauma where the bone has penetrated the skin.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "displaced" and "comminuted" for the radial shaft fracture.
• Verify the open fracture type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) is clearly documented by the treating physician.
• This code is for the initial encounter; subsequent care will require different encounter codes.