Pathological fracture, unsp ankle, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a fracture of an unspecified ankle that occurred due to an underlying disease process (pathological), rather than trauma. The fracture has failed to heal properly, resulting in a nonunion, and the patient is receiving ongoing treatment for this complication.

Apply this code when documentation indicates a patient is being treated for a pathological nonunion of an ankle fracture, and this is not the initial encounter for the fracture. This code is appropriate for follow-up visits, cast changes, or ongoing management of the nonunion. Documentation should clearly state "pathological fracture," "nonunion," and "ankle."

• Ensure documentation specifies "pathological fracture" to differentiate from traumatic fractures.
• The "K" seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter for a nonunion; do not use for initial treatment or routine healing.
• Code also the underlying pathological condition causing the fracture (e.g., osteoporosis, neoplasm).