Fracture of unsp phalanx of thmb, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a fracture of an unknown phalanx in an unspecified thumb that has failed to heal properly after initial treatment. Nonunion indicates that the bone ends have not united and are unlikely to do so without further intervention. This diagnosis is made during a follow-up visit after the initial injury.

Use this code for a patient presenting for ongoing management of a thumb phalanx fracture where imaging or clinical assessment confirms nonunion. This applies to subsequent encounters for the fracture, not the initial injury. It is appropriate when the specific phalanx (proximal or distal) and the specific thumb (left or right) are not documented.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "nonunion" and that this is a subsequent encounter for the fracture.
• Avoid using this code for initial fracture treatment or for malunion (healed in a poor position).
• If the specific phalanx or thumb is known, a more specific code should be selected.