Fatigue fx vert, lumbosacr region, subs for fx w routn heal

This code signifies a stress fracture of a vertebra in the lower back or sacrum that is currently healing normally. It indicates that the patient is receiving follow-up care for a previously diagnosed fatigue fracture in this region. The "subsequent encounter" aspect means the initial treatment has already occurred, and the fracture is progressing as expected.

Use this code for follow-up visits where a patient is being monitored for a lumbosacral vertebral stress fracture that is showing routine healing. Documentation should clearly state "fatigue fracture" or "stress fracture" of a lumbosacral vertebra, specify "subsequent encounter," and confirm "routine healing" or similar positive progress. This code is appropriate when the fracture is not experiencing delayed healing, nonunion, or malunion.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "fatigue fracture" or "stress fracture" to differentiate from traumatic fractures.
• Verify the encounter is for follow-up care and not the initial treatment or an encounter for complications.
• Distinguish from codes for delayed healing (M48.47XS), nonunion (M48.47XN), or malunion (M48.47XM).