Displ pilon fx r tibia, 7thE

This code describes a fracture of the distal tibia, specifically involving the weight-bearing surface of the ankle joint (pilon fracture), where the bone fragments are no longer in their anatomical alignment. It indicates that the fracture was initially open, meaning the skin was broken, and is now in a subsequent phase of routine healing.

Use this code for follow-up encounters when a patient with a previously diagnosed displaced pilon fracture of the right tibia, initially classified as an open fracture type I or II, is undergoing routine healing. This applies when the patient is progressing as expected without complications like delayed union or nonunion.

• Ensure documentation specifies "displaced" and "right tibia" for accurate coding.
• Confirm the initial injury was an "open fracture type I or II" and the current encounter is for "subsequent" care with "routine healing."
• Do not use this code if the fracture is closed, nondisplaced, or if complications such as delayed healing or nonunion are present.