Nondisp longitud fx unsp patella, 7thE

This code describes a patellar fracture that runs lengthwise (longitudinal) and has not shifted out of alignment. It specifically indicates that the fracture was initially an open fracture of type I or II, and the patient is now in a subsequent phase of care where the healing process is proceeding as expected.

This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters where a patient is receiving ongoing treatment for a previously diagnosed nondisplaced longitudinal patella fracture that was initially an open fracture (Gustilo-Anderson Type I or II). It signifies routine healing without complications.

• Ensure documentation specifies "nondisplaced" and "longitudinal" for the patella fracture.
• Verify the initial injury was an open fracture, specifically Type I or II, and that the current encounter is for subsequent care.
• Confirm that the healing process is documented as "routine" or "normal" to justify this specific seventh character.