Nondisp spiral fx shaft of rad, l arm, 7thG

This code describes a left arm injury where the radius bone has a spiral fracture in its shaft, meaning the bone is broken in a twisting pattern, but the bone fragments are still in their normal alignment. This specific code is used when the patient is receiving follow-up care for this fracture, and the healing process is taking longer than expected, but the skin over the fracture remains intact.

Use this code for a patient who presents for a follow-up appointment for a previously diagnosed nondisplaced spiral fracture of the left radial shaft. The physician's documentation should indicate that the fracture is not healing at the expected rate (delayed healing) and that the fracture is still considered closed. This code would be appropriate for subsequent cast changes, follow-up X-rays, or physical therapy appointments related to the delayed healing.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "delayed healing" for a closed fracture.
• Verify the laterality (left arm) and the specific bone (radius) and fracture type (nondisplaced spiral shaft fracture).
• This "G" seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter for delayed healing; do not use for initial treatment or routine healing.