Stress fracture, pelvis, subs encntr for fracture w nonunion

This code signifies a stress fracture of the pelvis that has failed to heal properly, indicating a nonunion, and the patient is currently receiving routine care during the healing phase. A stress fracture is a tiny crack in a bone caused by repetitive stress rather than a single traumatic injury. Nonunion means the fracture has not healed within the expected timeframe.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care, cast changes, or other routine management of a pelvic stress fracture that has been documented as a nonunion. Documentation should clearly state "stress fracture of pelvis," "nonunion," and indicate that this is a subsequent encounter for ongoing treatment.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "nonunion" for the pelvic stress fracture; otherwise, a code for routine healing may be more appropriate.
• This code includes the "K" seventh character, indicating a subsequent encounter for a fracture with nonunion. Do not use for initial treatment or sequelae.
• Always review the medical record for laterality (e.g., right, left, bilateral) if specified, as separate codes may exist for specific pelvic sites.