Fatigue fx vertebra, thrclm region, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a stress fracture of a vertebral body in the thoracolumbar spine (T11-L2) that is not healing at the expected rate. It indicates that the patient is receiving ongoing care for this fracture after the initial treatment, and the healing process is prolonged.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a previously diagnosed fatigue fracture of a thoracolumbar vertebra, and documentation explicitly states "delayed healing" or similar terminology indicating a protracted recovery. This would be used for subsequent visits after the initial encounter for the fracture.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "fatigue fracture" (stress fracture) and not a traumatic or pathological fracture.
• Confirm the fracture location is within the thoracolumbar region.
• Verify this is a "subsequent encounter" for the fracture and that delayed healing is noted; otherwise, a different seventh character may be appropriate.