Disp fx of third metatarsal bone, left foot, sequela

This code signifies a past injury involving a break in the third metatarsal bone of the left foot, where the bone fragments were not properly aligned. The "sequela" indicates that this code is used to report a condition that is a late effect or complication directly resulting from that initial displaced fracture, even if the fracture itself has healed.

This code is appropriate when a patient presents with ongoing symptoms, functional limitations, or complications (e.g., chronic pain, malunion, nonunion, arthritis) that are directly attributable to a previously sustained and healed, but originally displaced, fracture of the left third metatarsal. It should be used after the initial healing phase of the acute fracture has passed.

• Always ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to the prior displaced fracture.
• Do not use this code for the initial acute injury; use the appropriate acute fracture code.
• A seventh character of 'S' (sequela) is mandatory for this code, indicating a late effect.