Pathological fracture, left tibia, subs for fx w malunion

This code signifies a fracture of the left tibia that occurred due to an underlying disease process (e.g., osteoporosis, tumor), which is now being treated for a complication of healing where the bone has healed in an abnormal alignment. This indicates ongoing management of a previously sustained pathological fracture with a documented malunion.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care, assessment, or treatment related to a left tibial pathological fracture that has healed incorrectly. Documentation should clearly state "pathological fracture," specify the left tibia, and confirm the presence of a malunion during a subsequent encounter.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "pathological fracture" to differentiate from traumatic fractures.
• Verify the encounter is for subsequent care of the malunion, not initial treatment or routine follow-up of a healing fracture without complications.
• Always sequence this code after the underlying condition causing the pathological fracture, if still active and relevant to the encounter.