Unsp fracture of unsp forearm, subs for clos fx w nonunion

This code signifies a fracture of the forearm where the specific bone (radius or ulna) and its exact location are not documented. It indicates that the fracture has failed to heal properly after an initial treatment, and the patient is presenting for follow-up care related to this nonunion, with the skin remaining intact over the fracture site.

This code is appropriate when a patient presents for ongoing management of a previously treated, unspecified closed forearm fracture that has not united. It should be used when the medical record clearly states "nonunion" but lacks details regarding the specific forearm bone or fracture site.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "nonunion" and "closed fracture" for this code to be accurate.
• Avoid using this code if the specific bone (radius or ulna) or fracture location is documented; instead, use a more specific S52 subcategory.
• Verify the encounter is for subsequent care of the nonunion, not the initial treatment of the fracture.