Fx unsp phalanx of unsp finger, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a nonunion of a fracture involving an unspecified phalanx of an unspecified finger. Nonunion indicates that the bone has failed to heal completely after a previous fracture, despite the typical healing period. This is a subsequent encounter, meaning the patient is being seen for ongoing management of this complication.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a finger phalanx fracture that has been diagnosed as a nonunion. This would be used after the initial treatment of the fracture and when the physician documents the lack of bone healing. It is appropriate for ongoing management, including potential surgical intervention or conservative treatment for the nonunion.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" of a phalanx fracture, not just delayed healing.
• Verify the encounter is for subsequent care related to the nonunion, not the initial fracture treatment.
• Confirm the finger and phalanx are unspecified if no further detail is provided in the medical record.