Fatigue fx vert, occipt-atlan-ax rgn, 7thG

This code signifies a stress fracture of a vertebra in the upper cervical spine (occiput, C1, or C2) that is not healing as expected. It indicates that the patient is receiving ongoing care for this specific fracture after the initial treatment phase. The "G" seventh character specifies delayed healing.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a previously diagnosed fatigue fracture in the occipito-atlanto-axial region, and the physician documents that the fracture is experiencing delayed union or non-union. Supporting documentation would include imaging reports showing incomplete healing and physician notes detailing the ongoing management of the fracture.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "fatigue fracture" (stress fracture) and not a traumatic fracture.
• Verify the anatomical location is precisely within the occipito-atlanto-axial region.
• The "G" seventh character is crucial and indicates subsequent care for delayed healing; do not confuse it with "A" (initial encounter) or "D" (subsequent encounter for routine healing).