Bent bone of left ulna, subs for clos fx w nonunion

This code signifies a left ulna fracture where the bone has healed in an abnormal, angulated position (bent bone), and the fracture itself has failed to unite after initial treatment. This indicates a persistent break in the bone despite the body's attempts at repair, complicated by a deformity.

This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters with a patient who has a previously diagnosed closed fracture of the left ulna that has not healed and has resulted in a noticeable angulation or bending of the bone. It would be used when the patient is receiving ongoing care for this nonunion and deformity, such as for monitoring, further diagnostic workup, or planning for corrective surgery.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "nonunion" and describes the "bent bone" or angulation of the left ulna.
• Verify that the encounter is "subsequent" and the fracture was initially "closed."
• Do not use for initial fracture treatment or for malunion without documented nonunion.