Nondisp longitud fx unsp patella, 7thN

This code describes a situation where a patient has a nondisplaced fracture running lengthwise through the kneecap, and this fracture was initially an open fracture (meaning the bone broke through the skin) of a severe type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC). The current encounter is for ongoing management because the fracture is not healing properly (nonunion).

Use this code for follow-up visits, cast changes, or other continuing care for a patient whose severe open longitudinal patellar fracture has failed to unite. This applies when the initial fracture was nondisplaced and the current focus is on addressing the nonunion.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nondisplaced" and "longitudinal" for the patellar fracture.
• Verify the original injury was classified as an open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC.
• This code is for subsequent encounters; use the appropriate initial encounter code for the initial treatment of the fracture.