Nondisp osteochon fx l patella, 7thJ

This code signifies a non-displaced fracture involving both bone and cartilage of the left kneecap, specifically when the patient is in a subsequent phase of care. The initial injury was an open fracture, classified as severe (Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC), and the healing process is prolonged beyond the expected timeframe.

Apply this code for follow-up encounters where a patient with a previously diagnosed open, severe osteochondral fracture of the left patella is still undergoing treatment due to delayed healing. This includes situations like ongoing wound care, physical therapy, or monitoring for nonunion or malunion in the context of delayed healing.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nondisplaced" and "osteochondral" for the patellar fracture.
• Verify the initial injury was an open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC, and that delayed healing is explicitly documented.
• This code is for subsequent encounters; an initial encounter would use a different code.