Fatigue fracture of vertebra, thoracolumbar region, sqla

This code signifies a stress fracture of a vertebra in the thoracolumbar spine (T11-L2) that developed due to repetitive stress rather than a single traumatic event. It specifically indicates that the fracture is a residual effect or complication of a previously healed or resolved fracture in the same region.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a fatigue or stress fracture of a thoracolumbar vertebra and explicitly links it as a sequela of an earlier fracture. This is appropriate for patients presenting with chronic pain or instability directly attributable to the long-term effects of the previous injury and subsequent stress fracture.

• Ensure documentation specifies "fatigue fracture" or "stress fracture" and explicitly links it as a sequela.
• Do not use for acute traumatic fractures or pathological fractures due to underlying disease.
• Sequence this code after the primary reason for the encounter if the sequela is not the primary diagnosis.