Disp fx of epiphy (separation) (upper) of unsp femr, 7thN

This code describes a situation where the growth plate (epiphysis) at the top of an unspecified femur has fractured and the bone fragments are no longer aligned. This specific code is used when the fracture was initially an open fracture of a severe type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) and the bone is failing to heal properly (nonunion) during a subsequent encounter for care.

Use this code for follow-up visits where a patient is being treated for a previously sustained, severe open epiphyseal fracture of the upper femur that has not united. This applies when the physician is managing the nonunion, such as during preparations for revision surgery, ongoing conservative management, or assessment of healing progress.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the initial open fracture type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC).
• Verify that the encounter is "subsequent" and not the initial treatment for the fracture.
• Confirm the fracture is of the "epiphysis (separation) (upper)" of the femur, not the shaft or other parts.