Type III occipital condyle fracture, left side, 7thK

This code signifies a specific type of fracture affecting the left occipital condyle, which is a bony protrusion at the base of the skull that articulates with the first cervical vertebra. A Type III fracture indicates an avulsion injury where the alar ligament pulls off a fragment of the condyle. The "subsequent encounter for fracture with nonunion" specifies that the patient is receiving ongoing care for this fracture, and it has failed to heal properly.

Use this code when a patient presents for follow-up care, treatment, or evaluation of a previously diagnosed Type III occipital condyle fracture on the left side that has not united. Documentation should clearly state the fracture type (Type III), the laterality (left), and explicitly mention nonunion, indicating a failure of the bone to heal. This code is appropriate for scenarios such as surgical intervention for nonunion, casting/bracing adjustments, or ongoing pain management related to the unhealed fracture.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "Type III" for the occipital condyle fracture and "nonunion" for the healing status.
• Verify laterality (left) is clearly documented; separate codes exist for the right side and unspecified laterality.
• This "K" seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter for a nonunion; do not use for initial treatment or routine healing.