Barton's fx unsp rad, subs for opn fx type I/2 w delay heal

This code signifies a Barton's fracture, which is an intra-articular fracture of the distal radius involving the radiocarpal joint, in an unspecified radius. The fracture is an open type I or II, meaning there is a wound communicating with the fracture site, and the patient is in a subsequent encounter phase where the healing process is delayed.

Apply this code for follow-up visits where a patient with a previously diagnosed open Barton's fracture of the distal radius (type I or II) is experiencing delayed union or non-union. This code is appropriate when the initial treatment has been rendered and the focus of the encounter is on managing the delayed healing of the open fracture.

• Ensure documentation specifies the open nature (Type I or II) and the delayed healing status.
• This code requires a 7th character for the encounter type; 'H' indicates subsequent encounter for delayed healing.
• Do not use for initial treatment or for routine follow-up of a healing fracture without documented delayed healing.