Displ commnt fx unsp patella, 7thQ

This code signifies a comminuted fracture of the kneecap, where the bone fragments are separated and the fracture has broken through the skin (open fracture type I or II). It specifically indicates that the patient is in a later stage of care for this injury, and the fracture has healed improperly, resulting in malunion.

Apply this code when documenting a follow-up encounter for a patient with a previously diagnosed displaced comminuted open patellar fracture (Gustilo type I or II) that has now developed malunion. This would be used after the initial treatment phase, during ongoing management of the poorly healed fracture.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "displaced" and "comminuted" for the patellar fracture.
• Verify the open fracture type (I or II) is explicitly stated in the medical record.
• Confirm the encounter is for a subsequent visit and that malunion is documented as a complication of the healing process.