Stress fracture, left humerus, init encntr for fracture

This code signifies a fracture of the left humerus that has occurred due to repetitive stress rather than a single traumatic event. It indicates the initial phase of treatment for this specific type of bone injury.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a stress fracture affecting the left humerus. This is appropriate for the first encounter where the fracture is diagnosed and/or treatment is initiated. Supporting documentation should include imaging reports (e.g., X-ray, MRI, bone scan) confirming the stress fracture and a physician's assessment.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "stress fracture" and not a traumatic fracture, which would use a different code series.
• Verify the laterality (left humerus) is explicitly stated; codes exist for the right and unspecified humerus.
• The "A" seventh character indicates an initial encounter for active treatment; subsequent encounters for routine healing or complications will require different seventh characters.