Unsp fracture of fifth lum vertebra, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a fracture of the fifth lumbar vertebra where the specific type of fracture is not documented, and the bone has failed to heal properly after an initial treatment. It indicates that the patient is receiving ongoing care for this nonunion complication.

Apply this code for follow-up encounters when a patient presents with a previously diagnosed, unspecified fifth lumbar vertebral fracture that has not united. This is appropriate for visits related to managing the nonunion, such as for further imaging, medication adjustments, or discussions about surgical intervention for the nonunion.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "nonunion" and specifies the fifth lumbar vertebra.
• Verify that the encounter is for follow-up care related to the nonunion, not the initial fracture treatment.
• Always sequence this code after the initial fracture code if the nonunion is a complication of a recently treated fracture.