Oth fx fifth MC bone, left hand, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a fracture of the fifth metacarpal bone in the left hand, excluding a Boxer's fracture, that is currently in a delayed healing phase. This indicates the bone is not mending at the expected rate for its type and location. The patient is receiving ongoing care for this specific fracture.

Use this code for follow-up encounters where a patient is being treated for a left fifth metacarpal fracture (not a Boxer's fracture) that has not healed within the typical timeframe. This applies to situations where the physician documents delayed union or non-union is suspected, and the patient is still actively receiving treatment for the fracture.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "left hand" and "fifth metacarpal" and rules out a Boxer's fracture.
• The "G" seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter for a fracture with delayed healing; confirm this status in the medical record.
• Do not use this code for initial encounters or for fractures that are healing normally.