Nondisp fx of lateral malleolus of unsp fibula, 7thQ

This code describes a fracture of the outer ankle bone (lateral malleolus) that is not displaced, meaning the bone fragments are still in their normal alignment. This specific code is used when the patient is receiving follow-up care for a previously diagnosed open fracture (where the skin was broken) of either type I or type II, and the fracture is healing incorrectly, resulting in a malunion. The fibula involved is not specified as left or right.

This code is appropriate for use during subsequent encounters when a patient with a history of an open lateral malleolus fracture (type I or II) is being treated for complications related to malunion. This includes scenarios such as cast changes, physical therapy, or surgical planning to correct the malunion. It should be used after the initial treatment of the acute fracture.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nondisplaced" and "malunion" for a previously open fracture type I or II.
• Verify that the encounter is for follow-up care and not the initial treatment of the acute fracture.
• If the laterality (left or right fibula) is documented, a more specific code should be selected.