Displaced comminuted fracture of right patella, sequela

This code signifies a past injury to the right kneecap where the bone was broken into multiple fragments and the pieces were out of their normal alignment. The "sequela" indicates that this code is used to report a current condition or complication that is a direct result of that previous fracture, even if the fracture itself has healed.

This code is appropriate when a patient presents with a long-term complication or residual effect stemming from a previously sustained displaced comminuted fracture of the right patella. Examples include chronic pain, nonunion, malunion, post-traumatic arthritis, or limited range of motion directly attributable to the old injury. It should not be used for the initial treatment of the acute fracture.

• Always assign this code as a secondary diagnosis following the code for the specific sequela being treated (e.g., M17.11 for post-traumatic arthritis of the right knee).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to the old displaced comminuted right patella fracture.
• Verify laterality (right patella) and fracture type (displaced comminuted) are explicitly stated in the medical record.