Fracture of nasal bones, subs encntr for fracture w nonunion

This code signifies a fracture of the nasal bones that has failed to heal properly after an initial treatment, and the patient is receiving active treatment for this nonunion. It indicates a persistent separation of the bone fragments at the fracture site.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a previously treated nasal bone fracture has resulted in nonunion, and the patient is undergoing ongoing care for this complication. This includes scenarios such as surgical intervention for nonunion or continued conservative management.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "nonunion" of the nasal bone fracture.
• This code requires an associated external cause code (e.g., V00-Y99) to describe the circumstances of the injury.
• Distinguish from malunion (M84.28) where the fracture has healed but in an unsatisfactory position.