Fracture of body of sternum, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a fracture of the main part of the breastbone that has failed to heal properly after initial treatment. The patient is presenting for ongoing management of this unhealed fracture, indicating a persistent break in the bone despite previous interventions.

Apply this code when a patient is seen for follow-up care of a sternal body fracture that has been diagnosed as a nonunion. This includes visits for evaluation, treatment planning (e.g., for surgical intervention to promote healing), or monitoring of the nonunion.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "nonunion" of the sternal body fracture.
• Confirm this is a subsequent encounter, not the initial treatment for the fracture.
• Do not use for malunion, which implies healing in an unsatisfactory position, but rather for a complete failure to heal.