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

This code signifies a bent ulna bone, specifically an unspecified type of fracture, that has failed to heal properly (nonunion) after initial treatment. The fracture is closed, meaning the skin over the injury remains intact. This diagnosis is made during a follow-up visit after the initial treatment.

Apply this code for patients presenting for subsequent care of a closed ulna fracture that has developed nonunion, and the specific type of bent bone fracture is not further specified. This would be used when the patient is seen for ongoing management, evaluation, or treatment of the nonunion, such as considering surgical intervention or further conservative measures.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "nonunion" and "subsequent encounter" for a closed ulna fracture.
• Verify that the specific type of bent bone fracture is not documented; otherwise, a more specific code may be appropriate.
• Always sequence this code after any acute fracture codes if the patient is being treated for both an acute injury and the nonunion of a previous injury.