Stress fracture, left humerus, subs for fx w routn heal

This code signifies a stress fracture affecting the left upper arm bone (humerus) that is currently in the healing phase without complications. A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone caused by repetitive stress rather than a single traumatic event.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a previously diagnosed left humeral stress fracture that is healing as expected. Documentation should clearly indicate "subsequent encounter" and "routine healing" or similar terms, along with the specific location of the fracture.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "left humerus" and not a different bone or side.
• Verify that the encounter is for follow-up care of a healing fracture, not an initial diagnosis or a nonunion.
• Distinguish from codes for nonunion or malunion, which indicate complicated healing.