Oth fracture of shaft of l humerus, subs for fx w nonunion

This diagnosis code signifies a fracture in the shaft of the left upper arm bone that has not healed properly after an initial treatment. The patient is presenting for follow-up care related to this persistent healing issue. This indicates a complication where the bone fragments have failed to unite.

Apply this code when a patient with a previously diagnosed fracture of the left humeral shaft is seen for ongoing management of a nonunion. This includes visits for evaluation, treatment planning (e.g., bone grafting, revision surgery), or monitoring of the non-healing fracture. It is used after the initial treatment phase has concluded and the fracture has failed to consolidate.

• Always use in conjunction with an external cause code if applicable to the original injury.
• Ensure documentation clearly states "nonunion" and specifies the left humerus shaft.
• Verify the encounter is for subsequent care, not the initial treatment of the fracture.