Nondisp commnt fx l patella, 7thE

This code describes a left kneecap fracture that has broken into multiple pieces but remains in its normal anatomical position. It specifically indicates that the skin over the fracture was broken (an open fracture, Type I or II) and the patient is now in a follow-up phase where the bone is healing as expected.

This code is appropriate for subsequent encounters when a patient with a previously diagnosed nondisplaced, comminuted, open Type I or II fracture of the left patella is receiving routine follow-up care. This includes visits for cast changes, wound checks, or physical therapy during the normal healing period.

• Ensure documentation specifies "nondisplaced" and "comminuted" for the patellar fracture.
• Verify the fracture is of the left patella and was initially an "open fracture type I or II."
• Confirm the patient is in a "subsequent encounter" phase with "routine healing" to differentiate from initial treatment or delayed/nonunion healing.