Sltr-haris Type IV physeal fx lower end of left tibia, init

This code identifies a specific growth plate fracture affecting the lower portion of the left shin bone, where the fracture line extends through the epiphysis, growth plate, and metaphysis. This is a severe type of Salter-Harris fracture, indicating a significant injury to the developing bone. The "initial encounter" signifies that this code is used for the patient's first visit for this specific injury.

Apply this code for a patient presenting with a newly diagnosed Salter-Harris Type IV fracture of the distal left tibia. This would typically be seen in pediatric or adolescent patients following trauma, such as a fall or sports injury. It is appropriate for the initial evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment planning of this closed fracture.

• Ensure documentation specifies "Type IV" and "lower end of left tibia" to support this code.
• Confirm the encounter is indeed the initial treatment for this fracture; subsequent encounters will require different seventh characters.
• Verify the fracture is documented as "closed" (skin intact) to avoid using codes for open fractures.