Stress fracture, left hand, subs for fx w malunion

This code signifies a stress fracture in the left hand that has healed improperly, resulting in a malunion. It indicates that the patient is receiving ongoing care for this previously sustained and now complicated fracture. Malunion implies a deformity or functional impairment due to the incorrect alignment of the bone fragments during healing.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care, rehabilitation, or management of complications related to a stress fracture of the left hand that has healed in a misaligned position. Documentation should clearly state "malunion" of a "stress fracture" in the "left hand" and indicate a "subsequent encounter" for treatment or assessment of this condition.

• Ensure documentation specifies "stress fracture" and not another type of fracture (e.g., traumatic, pathological).
• Verify the laterality is "left hand"; do not use for right hand or unspecified hand fractures.
• Confirm this is a "subsequent encounter" for the malunion, not the initial treatment of the fracture or a sequela.