Unsp fracture of upper end of unspecified ulna, sequela

This code represents a fracture of the proximal ulna that is unspecified in nature and location within the upper end, and is being reported as a sequela. A sequela indicates that the acute phase of the injury has passed, and the patient is now experiencing a late effect or complication of the original fracture.

Use this code when documenting a long-term complication or residual effect of a previously sustained, unspecified fracture to the upper ulna. This applies to situations where the patient is no longer in the initial healing phase but is being treated for issues directly resulting from the old injury, such as malunion, nonunion, or chronic pain.

• Ensure documentation clearly supports the "sequela" designation, indicating the current condition is a late effect of a past fracture.
• Verify that the fracture location is indeed the "upper end of the ulna" and that no further specificity is available regarding the fracture type.
• Always sequence the sequela code first, followed by codes for the specific manifestation of the sequela (e.g., malunion, nonunion).