Fracture of one rib, left side, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a patient presenting with a fracture of a single rib on the left side that is not healing at the expected rate. It indicates that the initial treatment for the fracture has already occurred, and the current encounter is for ongoing management due to the delayed healing process.

Use this code for follow-up visits where a patient with a previously diagnosed left rib fracture is being monitored for delayed union or nonunion. This applies when the physician documents that the fracture is not progressing to healing as anticipated, requiring further intervention or extended care.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "left side" and "delayed healing" for a single rib fracture.
• This code requires a 7th character "G" for subsequent encounter with delayed healing; do not use "A" for initial or "D" for routine follow-up.
• Confirm that the encounter is for the ongoing management of the delayed healing, not for a new injury or a completely healed fracture.