Stress fracture, left femur, sequela

This code signifies a stress fracture of the left femur that has resulted in a long-term consequence or late effect. This could include chronic pain, nonunion, malunion, or persistent functional limitation directly attributable to the original stress fracture. The "sequela" indicates that the acute phase of the fracture has passed, and the patient is now experiencing residual effects.

Use this code when a patient presents with a current condition or complaint that is a direct result of a previously healed or resolving stress fracture of the left femur. Documentation should clearly state the link between the current issue and the past stress fracture, often using terms like "due to," "secondary to," or "complication of." This code is appropriate for follow-up care related to the long-term impact of the fracture.

• Always sequence this code after the code for the specific sequela (e.g., chronic pain, nonunion).
• Ensure documentation explicitly states the laterality (left femur) and the "sequela" nature of the condition.
• Do not use this code for an active, acute stress fracture; use the appropriate acute stress fracture code from the M84.35- series.