Displ oblique fx shaft of unsp rad, 7thP

This code signifies a displaced fracture of the shaft of the radius, specifically an oblique break, that has previously been treated and is now presenting with malunion. Malunion indicates that the bone has healed, but in an unsatisfactory or deformed position, which may lead to functional impairment.

Apply this code when a patient is seen for follow-up care of a previously diagnosed and treated oblique radial shaft fracture that has healed in a misaligned manner. This would be used during subsequent encounters where the focus is on managing the complications of the malunion, such as pain, limited range of motion, or planning for corrective surgery.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "malunion" and specifies the "shaft" of the radius.
• Verify that the encounter is "subsequent" and the fracture was initially "closed."
• Do not use this code for nonunion, which implies the fracture has not healed at all.