Bennett's fracture, unsp hand, subs for fx w malunion

This code signifies a Bennett's fracture, which is an intra-articular fracture of the base of the first metacarpal bone, involving the carpometacarpal joint of the thumb. The "unspecified hand" indicates that the laterality of the injury (left or right) is not documented. The "subsequent encounter for fracture with malunion" specifies that the patient is receiving follow-up care for a fracture that has healed in an unsatisfactory position, leading to functional impairment.

Apply this code when a patient presents for ongoing treatment, evaluation, or management of a previously diagnosed Bennett's fracture that has healed with malunion. This would include scenarios such as physical therapy for range of motion issues, surgical consultation for corrective osteotomy, or imaging to assess the extent of the malunion.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "malunion" and that the encounter is for follow-up care, not initial treatment.
• If the laterality (left or right hand) is specified in the medical record, a more specific code should be used.
• Do not use this code for nonunion; a different code exists for that complication.