Nondisp longitud fx r patella, 7thR

This code describes a patellar fracture on the right side that runs lengthwise and has not shifted out of alignment. The fracture was initially open, classified as a severe type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC), and has since healed incorrectly, resulting in a malunion. This indicates a complication in the healing process of a previously severe open patella fracture.

Use this code for follow-up encounters where a patient is being treated for a malunion of a previously sustained, nondisplaced longitudinal open fracture (Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) of the right patella. This applies when the malunion is the primary focus of the current encounter, such as for evaluation, management of symptoms related to the malunion, or planning for corrective surgery.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "right" patella and "nondisplaced longitudinal" fracture.
• Verify that the original fracture was an "open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC" and that "malunion" is explicitly documented.
• This code is for a subsequent encounter; do not use for the initial treatment of the fracture.