Colles' fracture of left radius, init for opn fx type 3A/B/C

This code signifies a specific type of distal radius fracture, known as a Colles' fracture, affecting the left arm. It indicates that the fracture is an open fracture, meaning the skin has been broken, and is further classified as a severe open fracture (Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) according to the Gustilo-Anderson classification. This is the initial encounter for treatment of this injury.

This code is appropriate for documenting the initial diagnosis and treatment of a patient presenting with an open Colles' fracture of the left radius, where the open nature of the fracture is severe (Gustilo-Anderson Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC). This would be used when the patient is first seen for this specific injury, prior to any subsequent care or healing phases.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "left" radius and confirms the open fracture type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC).
• Verify this is the "initial encounter" for treatment of this fracture; subsequent encounters will use different seventh characters.
• Do not confuse with other distal radius fracture types or closed fractures.