Fatigue fracture of vertebra, thoracic region, sqla

This code signifies a stress fracture of a thoracic vertebra that is a long-term consequence or late effect of a previously sustained fracture. It indicates that the current fatigue fracture is directly attributable to the biomechanical changes or weakened bone structure resulting from an earlier vertebral fracture in the thoracic spine.

Use this code when documentation clearly links a current fatigue fracture of a thoracic vertebra to a prior fracture at the same site, indicating a sequela. This applies when the patient presents with symptoms related to the fatigue fracture, and the medical record specifies it as a late effect. Supporting documentation would include imaging reports confirming the fatigue fracture and a history detailing the previous thoracic vertebral fracture.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states the fatigue fracture is a "sequela" or "late effect" of a prior fracture, not an acute event.
• Do not use this code for acute fatigue fractures or pathological fractures due to underlying disease processes (e.g., osteoporosis without a prior traumatic fracture).
• Always sequence this code after the primary reason for the encounter, if applicable, and consider any associated pain codes.