Pathological fracture, left foot, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a fracture in the left foot that occurred due to an underlying disease process, rather than trauma, and has failed to heal properly. The patient is currently receiving routine care during the healing phase for this nonunion.

Apply this code when documentation indicates a pathological fracture of the left foot with confirmed nonunion, and the patient is in a subsequent phase of care (e.g., cast changes, follow-up appointments for healing assessment). Supporting documentation should clearly state "pathological fracture," "left foot," and "nonunion," along with the encounter type.

• Always sequence the underlying condition causing the pathological fracture first.
• Distinguish between nonunion (failure to heal) and malunion (healed in a deformed position).
• Ensure the documentation specifies "left foot" and not a more general "foot" or "lower extremity."