Stress fracture, right fibula, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a stress fracture of the right fibula that is currently undergoing treatment for delayed healing. It indicates that the initial injury occurred previously, and the bone is not mending within the expected timeframe. This condition often results from repetitive microtrauma to the bone.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a previously diagnosed right fibular stress fracture that is exhibiting delayed union or nonunion. Documentation should clearly state the location of the stress fracture, the right side, and explicitly mention delayed healing or a similar term indicating a prolonged recovery period.

• Ensure documentation specifies "right fibula" and "stress fracture" to differentiate from other fracture types or locations.
• The "G" seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter for a fracture with delayed healing; do not use for initial treatment or routine healing.
• Always sequence this code as the primary diagnosis if the delayed healing is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if managing other conditions concurrently.