Nondisp fx of dist phalanx of l idx fngr, 7thG

This code signifies a fracture of the furthest bone in the left index finger that has not shifted from its normal position. The patient is currently in the healing phase, but the bone union is progressing slower than expected. This indicates a complication in the recovery process of the initial injury.

This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters where a patient with a previously diagnosed nondisplaced distal phalanx fracture of the left index finger is experiencing delayed healing. It should be used when the fracture is still present and the physician documents that the healing process is not progressing at the anticipated rate. This code is also used for subsequent encounters for routine care during the delayed healing period.

• Always confirm the laterality (left) and the specific finger (index) are documented.
• Ensure the physician's documentation explicitly states "delayed healing" for this subsequent encounter.
• Do not use this code for initial encounters or for fractures that are healing normally.