Stress fracture, left ulna, sequela

This code signifies a stress fracture of the left ulna that has resulted in a long-term complication or residual effect after the acute phase of the injury has passed. This could include chronic pain, nonunion, malunion, or persistent functional limitation directly attributable to the original stress fracture.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a current condition or symptom that is a direct consequence of a previously sustained stress fracture to the left ulna. This typically involves follow-up encounters where the patient is being treated for the lasting effects rather than the initial healing of the fracture.

• Requires a seventh character of 'S' for sequela, indicating a complication or residual effect.
• Do not use for initial encounters or subsequent encounters during the active healing phase of the stress fracture.
• Always sequence this code after the code(s) identifying the specific sequela (e.g., chronic pain, nonunion).