Pathological fracture, left toe(s), subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a fracture of the left toe(s) that occurred due to an underlying disease process, rather than trauma. It specifically indicates that the patient is in a subsequent phase of treatment for this pathological fracture, and the fracture has failed to heal properly, resulting in a nonunion.

Use this code when documentation clearly states a pathological fracture of the left toe(s) and the patient is receiving ongoing care for this fracture, which has been diagnosed as a nonunion. This applies to follow-up visits, cast changes, or surgical interventions aimed at addressing the nonunion. Documentation should specify the pathological nature of the fracture and the nonunion status.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "pathological fracture" and "nonunion" for the left toe(s).
• This code is for a subsequent encounter; an initial encounter would use a different 7th character.
• Always code the underlying disease causing the pathological fracture first, if known and still active.