Path fx in oth disease, l tibia, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a fracture of the left tibia that occurred due to an underlying disease process, rather than trauma. The fracture is currently in a phase of delayed healing, meaning it is taking longer than expected to unite. This diagnosis indicates that the patient is receiving ongoing care for this specific fracture complication.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a pathological fracture of the left tibia and explicitly notes delayed healing. This is appropriate for follow-up encounters where the physician is monitoring the fracture's progress and managing the delayed union. Supporting documentation would include imaging reports, physician notes detailing the underlying disease, and assessment of healing status.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "pathological fracture" and the laterality (left tibia).
• The "G" seventh character indicates subsequent encounter with delayed healing; do not use for initial treatment or routine healing.
• Always code the underlying disease causing the pathological fracture first, followed by this fracture code.