Unsp intracap fx left femur, subs for clos fx w nonunion

This code signifies a non-healing fracture located within the joint capsule of the left femur, specifically when the patient is presenting for follow-up care. The fracture was initially closed, meaning the skin remained intact, but has failed to unite properly. This indicates a complication in the healing process of the femoral head or neck.

This code is appropriate for documenting subsequent encounters for patients who have previously sustained an unspecified intracapsular fracture of the left femur, and imaging or clinical assessment confirms that the bone fragments have not fused together. This would include follow-up appointments for ongoing management, such as cast changes, physical therapy, or preparation for revision surgery due to the nonunion.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "nonunion" and specifies the left femur and intracapsular location.
• Verify that the encounter is for follow-up care of a previously diagnosed closed fracture, not the initial treatment.
• Distinguish from malunion, which implies healing in an incorrect position, whereas nonunion indicates a complete failure to heal.