Fx subcondylar process of mandible, unsp side, sequela

This code indicates a long-term complication or late effect resulting from a previous fracture of the subcondylar process of the mandible, where the side (left or right) is not specified. Sequelae can include chronic pain, malocclusion, limited range of motion, or temporomandibular joint dysfunction stemming from the original injury.

Apply this code when documenting a condition that is a residual effect of a healed or past fracture of the mandibular subcondylar process. The patient's medical record must clearly link the current complaint to a prior subcondylar fracture, and the specific side of the mandible is not documented.

• Always sequence the sequela code first, followed by a code describing the specific nature of the sequela (e.g., M26.21 for malocclusion).
• Ensure documentation explicitly states the condition is a "sequela," "late effect," or "due to old fracture" of the subcondylar process.
• Avoid using this code for acute or active fractures; those require codes from the initial or subsequent encounter categories.