Displ commnt fx shaft of l tibia, 7thG

This code describes a severe break in the main part of the left shin bone, where the bone has shattered into multiple fragments and the pieces are no longer in their normal alignment. This specific encounter is for ongoing management of the fracture, which is not healing as quickly as expected, and the skin over the fracture remains intact.

Apply this code when a patient with a previously diagnosed displaced comminuted fracture of the shaft of the left tibia presents for follow-up care, and the physician documents delayed union of the closed fracture. This is appropriate for visits where the patient is still receiving active treatment for the fracture, such as cast changes, physical therapy, or imaging to monitor healing progress, and the healing process is prolonged.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "displaced," "comminuted," "shaft of left tibia," and "delayed healing."
• Verify that the encounter is for subsequent care of a closed fracture, not an open one.
• This "G" seventh character indicates delayed healing; do not use for routine follow-up or malunion/nonunion.