Displ seg fx shaft of unsp tibia, 7thN

This code describes a complex fracture involving a break in the shaft of the tibia, where the bone fragments are not aligned and there are multiple fracture lines. It specifically indicates that the fracture was initially open (meaning the bone broke through the skin) and is now experiencing nonunion, a complication where the bone fails to heal after a subsequent encounter for treatment. The "type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC" further specifies the severity of the open fracture, indicating significant soft tissue damage.

Use this code for patients presenting for follow-up care or treatment of a previously diagnosed open segmental tibial shaft fracture that has not healed. This applies when the fracture was initially classified as an open type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC, and the current encounter addresses the nonunion. This code would be appropriate for surgical interventions to promote healing, cast changes, or evaluations of the nonunion.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the "subsequent encounter" for the open fracture.
• Verify the original open fracture type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) is documented, as this is a specific inclusion criterion.
• Confirm the fracture is of the "shaft" of the tibia and is "segmental" and "displaced."