In simple words: This code describes a broken forearm bone (radius) where the broken pieces are out of place and the skin is torn, which hasn't healed properly after initial treatment.

Displaced transverse fracture of the shaft of an unspecified radius, which is the larger of the two forearm bones, refers to a break line that runs transversely through the central portion of the forearm bone, with bone fragments moving out of their original position, due to trauma such as a fall on an outstretched hand. Type I or II refers to the Gustilo classification and indicates fractures with anterior or posterior radial head dislocation and minimal to moderate soft tissue damage due to low energy trauma. This code applies to the subsequent encounter for an open fracture exposed through a tear or laceration of the skin caused by displaced fracture fragments or external injury that fails to unite. The laterality (right or left) is not specified.

Example 1: A patient presents for a follow-up visit after an initial open reduction and internal fixation of a displaced transverse fracture of the right radial shaft. The fracture site shows signs of nonunion, with persistent pain and instability., A patient initially sustained an open fracture of the left radial shaft classified as Gustilo type II. During a subsequent encounter, the physician notes that the fracture has not united, requiring further intervention., A patient with a history of a displaced transverse fracture of the radius presents with ongoing pain and limited range of motion. Imaging confirms nonunion of the fracture, and the patient is scheduled for revision surgery.

Documentation should include details of the initial injury, type of fracture (transverse, displaced), Gustilo classification (Type I or II), evidence of nonunion (e.g., imaging results, clinical findings), and all previous treatments.

** Use secondary code(s) from Chapter 20, External causes of morbidity (V00-Y99), to indicate the cause of injury. Use additional code to identify any retained foreign body, if applicable (Z18.-).