Fracture of one rib, left side, sequela

This diagnosis code indicates a long-term complication or late effect resulting from a fracture of a single rib on the patient's left side. It is used when the acute phase of the rib fracture has passed, and the patient is experiencing residual issues directly attributable to the prior injury. These sequelae can include chronic pain, nonunion, malunion, or nerve entrapment.

Apply this code when documenting a patient encounter for a condition that is a direct consequence of a previously healed or resolving left-sided rib fracture. This is appropriate for follow-up visits where the focus is on managing the chronic effects of the old injury, rather than the initial acute fracture. Examples include persistent intercostal neuralgia or deformity from a malunited fracture.

• Always assign this code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific sequela being treated (e.g., chronic pain, nonunion).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to the prior left rib fracture and indicates the acute phase has concluded.
• The "S" in the 7th character signifies sequela and must be used for late effects of the injury.