Oth fracture of third lum vertebra, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a fracture of the third lumbar vertebra that is not a compression fracture, burst fracture, or other specified type, and is currently undergoing treatment for delayed healing. The patient has previously received initial care for this injury, and the current encounter focuses on managing the prolonged healing process.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a third lumbar vertebral fracture (excluding compression or burst) that is not healing at the expected rate. This would include scenarios where imaging shows persistent fracture lines or callus formation is significantly behind schedule, requiring ongoing medical management or intervention.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "delayed healing" for the fracture.
• Verify the fracture location is specifically the third lumbar vertebra.
• Confirm the encounter is for subsequent care, not the initial treatment of the fracture.