Nondisp commnt fx unsp patella, 7thH

This code signifies a comminuted fracture of the kneecap that is not displaced, meaning the bone fragments are still in their anatomical position. It specifically applies to an open fracture (where the skin is broken) of Type I or II, indicating a relatively clean wound with minimal to moderate soft tissue damage, and is used during the healing phase when the fracture is not progressing as expected.

This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters for patients with a previously diagnosed nondisplaced comminuted patellar fracture that was initially an open fracture (Type I or II). It should be used when the physician documents delayed healing of this specific injury. This code would be selected when the patient is seen for ongoing management, such as cast changes, wound care, or imaging to assess healing progress that is slower than anticipated.

• Always confirm the fracture is nondisplaced and comminuted, and that the initial injury was an open fracture Type I or II.
• Ensure documentation explicitly states "delayed healing" for this specific fracture to support code assignment.
• This code is for subsequent encounters; an initial encounter would use a different code.