Fatigue fx vert, cervicothor rgn, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a stress fracture of a vertebra located in the cervicothoracic junction (C7-T1 region) that is currently undergoing a healing process, but at a slower rate than expected. It indicates that the patient is receiving follow-up care for this specific type of vertebral fracture.

Apply this code for patients presenting for ongoing treatment or evaluation of a cervicothoracic vertebral fatigue fracture that has not healed within the anticipated timeframe. Documentation should clearly state "delayed healing" or similar terminology, and specify the cervicothoracic region. This code is used for subsequent encounters after the initial treatment of the fracture.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "fatigue fracture" or "stress fracture" and specifies the cervicothoracic region.
• The "G" seventh character indicates delayed healing; do not use for routine follow-up without delayed healing or for nonunion.
• Confirm this is a subsequent encounter; initial treatment would use a different seventh character.