Smith's fx left rad, subs for opn fx type I/2 w routn heal

This code describes a Smith's fracture, which is a reverse Colles' fracture involving the distal radius with volar displacement, specifically affecting the left arm. The fracture was initially an open fracture of Type I or II severity, and the patient is now in a subsequent phase of care where the fracture is healing routinely.

This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters for patients with a previously diagnosed open Smith's fracture of the left radius, where the initial injury was classified as Type I or II. It should be used when the bone is healing as expected without complications, such as delayed union or nonunion. This code would be selected during office visits, physical therapy sessions, or other follow-up appointments where the primary focus is monitoring the routine healing process.

• Ensure the documentation specifies a Smith's fracture (volar displacement) of the left radius, not a Colles' fracture.
• Verify that the initial injury was an open fracture, Type I or II, and that the current encounter is for routine healing.
• Do not use this code if the healing is complicated (e.g., delayed healing, nonunion, malunion); select the appropriate complicated healing code instead.