Nondisp osteochon fx l patella, init for opn fx type 3A/B/C

This code signifies a fracture involving both cartilage and underlying bone of the left kneecap that has not shifted from its normal position. It specifically applies when the skin and soft tissues surrounding the fracture are significantly damaged, indicating a severe open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC.

This code is appropriate for the initial treatment of a patient presenting with a non-displaced osteochondral fracture of the left patella resulting from high-energy trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident or severe fall, where there is extensive soft tissue injury and contamination. It should be used for the first encounter for this specific injury type.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nondisplaced" and "osteochondral" for the left patella.
• Verify the open fracture type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) is explicitly documented by the physician.
• Confirm this is the patient's initial encounter for this specific injury to use the "C" seventh character.