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

This code signifies a complex break in the main part of the radius bone, where the bone is shattered into multiple pieces and the fragments are not properly aligned. It specifically indicates that the skin was broken (an open fracture, either Type I or II) at the time of injury, and the patient is now receiving follow-up care because the fracture is not healing as expected.

Apply this code for a patient presenting for ongoing management of an open, comminuted, displaced radial shaft fracture that was initially Type I or II, and where the physician documents delayed union or non-union. This is appropriate for subsequent visits after the initial treatment, focusing on interventions for the delayed healing process.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "delayed healing" or "nonunion" for this subsequent encounter.
• Verify the original injury was an open fracture, Type I or II, and that the fracture is comminuted and displaced.
• Do not use for initial treatment or routine follow-up of a healing fracture without documented delayed healing.