Displ transverse fx shaft of unsp tibia, 7thN

This code describes a previously treated, but still unhealed, fracture of the mid-shaft of the tibia that has shifted out of alignment. Specifically, it indicates a severe open fracture (Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) where the bone ends have failed to unite after initial management. The "unspecified tibia" implies the laterality (left or right) is not documented.

Use this code for follow-up encounters when a patient presents with a nonunion of a displaced transverse fracture of the tibial shaft, which was initially an open fracture of Gustilo-Anderson Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC. This applies when the physician is actively managing the nonunion, such as for surgical planning, cast changes, or monitoring healing progress.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the Gustilo-Anderson open fracture type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC).
• Verify the fracture is of the "transverse" type and located in the "shaft" of the tibia.
• If laterality (left or right) is documented, a more specific code should be selected.