Stress fracture, right shoulder, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a stress fracture affecting the right shoulder, specifically when the patient is receiving follow-up care for a fracture that has failed to heal properly (nonunion). A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone, often caused by repetitive stress or overuse, rather than a single traumatic event. Nonunion indicates that the bone ends have not grown together after a significant period.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a patient is being treated for a right shoulder stress fracture that has not united. This is appropriate for subsequent encounters where the focus is on managing the nonunion, such as follow-up appointments, imaging to assess healing progress, or interventions aimed at promoting bone fusion. Supporting documentation should specify the location (right shoulder), the type of fracture (stress), and the nonunion status.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "stress fracture" and not another type of fracture (e.g., pathological, traumatic).
• Verify the laterality is explicitly stated as "right shoulder."
• The "K" seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter for a fracture with nonunion; do not use for initial care or routine healing.