Stress fracture, left fibula, initial encounter for fracture

This code signifies a stress fracture affecting the left fibula, which is a small bone in the lower leg. A stress fracture is a tiny crack in a bone caused by repetitive stress or overuse, rather than a single acute injury. This specific code indicates that this is the patient's initial visit for treatment of this fracture.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a stress fracture of the left fibula and the patient is presenting for their first encounter related to this specific injury. Supporting documentation would include imaging reports (e.g., X-ray, MRI, bone scan) confirming the stress fracture, and physician notes detailing the diagnosis and initial treatment plan.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "stress fracture" and not another type of fibula fracture.
• Verify the laterality (left fibula) is clearly documented.
• The "A" seventh character indicates an initial encounter for active treatment; use subsequent characters for follow-up care.