Fatigue fx vertebra, lumbar region, subs for fx w routn heal

This code signifies a stress fracture of a vertebral body in the lumbar spine that is currently in the healing phase, following initial treatment. It indicates that the patient is receiving follow-up care for a fracture that is progressing as expected without complications.

Apply this code for patients presenting for routine follow-up appointments for a lumbar vertebral fatigue fracture that is healing normally. Documentation should clearly state "subsequent encounter" and indicate "routine healing" or similar phrasing, such as "healing well" or "stable."

• Ensure documentation specifies "lumbar region" and "fatigue fracture" to differentiate from other fracture types or locations.
• Verify the encounter type is for follow-up care, not initial treatment or treatment of a complication.
• Do not use if the fracture is nonunion, malunion, or experiencing delayed healing; specific codes exist for those scenarios.