Fatigue fracture of vertebra, lumbar region, init for fx

This code signifies a stress fracture occurring in a lumbar vertebra, resulting from repetitive or excessive mechanical stress rather than a single traumatic event. It indicates that the patient is receiving initial active treatment for this specific fracture.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a fatigue or stress fracture of a lumbar vertebra. This is appropriate for the initial phase of treatment, such as evaluation, immobilization, or surgical repair. Supporting documentation should specify the lumbar region and the nature of the fracture as fatigue-related.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "fatigue fracture" or "stress fracture" of a lumbar vertebra; do not assume based on mechanism.
• Verify that this is the initial encounter for the fracture; subsequent care would require a different encounter character.
• Distinguish from pathological fractures (M84.4-) or other types of vertebral fractures (S32.0-) which have different etiologies and code assignments.