Nondisp oblique fx shaft of unsp femr, 7thB

This code signifies a break in the shaft of the femur that runs diagonally (oblique) but where the bone fragments remain in their normal alignment (nondisplaced). It specifically applies to an initial encounter for an open fracture, meaning the skin and soft tissues are also compromised, exposing the bone to the outside environment, classified as Type I or Type II according to the Gustilo-Anderson classification.

Use this code for a patient presenting with a newly diagnosed oblique, nondisplaced fracture of the femoral shaft where the injury has broken through the skin. This applies when the open fracture is classified as Type I (minimal skin damage, wound less than 1 cm) or Type II (moderate skin damage, wound 1-10 cm, without extensive soft tissue damage).

• Always confirm the fracture type (oblique), displacement (nondisplaced), and open fracture classification (Type I or II) from the physician's documentation.
• Ensure the documentation clearly states "initial encounter" for this specific injury.
• If the laterality (left or right femur) is documented, a more specific code should be used.