Oth fracture of base of skull, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a fracture of the base of the skull, excluding the occipital condyle, that has failed to heal properly after initial treatment. It indicates a persistent separation of bone fragments at the fracture site, requiring ongoing medical management. This nonunion can lead to chronic pain, neurological deficits, and increased risk of infection.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a previously diagnosed base of skull fracture that has not united. Documentation should clearly state "nonunion" or "failed healing" of the fracture. This code is appropriate for subsequent encounters where the nonunion is the primary focus of treatment or evaluation.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "nonunion" and specifies the "base of skull" as the fracture site.
• Distinguish from malunion (improper healing) or delayed union (slow but eventual healing).
• Always sequence this code after any codes for associated complications or ongoing treatment related to the nonunion.