Displaced pilon fx unsp tibia, init for opn fx type 3A/B/C

This code signifies a fracture of the distal tibia (pilon fracture) that involves displacement of the bone fragments. It specifically indicates an open fracture, meaning the bone has broken through the skin, and is classified as a severe open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC based on the extent of soft tissue damage and contamination. This code is used for the initial treatment of such an injury.

Apply this code when documenting the initial encounter for a patient presenting with a displaced pilon fracture of the tibia where the specific tibia (left or right) is not documented. This is appropriate for severe open fractures requiring significant debridement, extensive soft tissue reconstruction, or those with arterial injury.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "displaced" and "open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC."
• If the laterality (left or right tibia) is specified in the medical record, a more specific code should be chosen.
• This code is for the initial encounter; subsequent care would require a different encounter character (e.g., D for subsequent, S for sequela).