Displ apophyseal fx unsp femur, subs for clos fx w nonunion

This code signifies a fracture occurring at an apophysis (a bony outgrowth or projection) of an unspecified femur, which has been previously treated but has failed to heal properly (nonunion). The fracture itself is closed, meaning the skin remains intact over the injury site. This code is used for follow-up care of this specific type of complicated femoral fracture.

Apply this code when documenting subsequent encounters for a patient with a previously diagnosed apophyseal fracture of the femur that has not united. This includes situations where the patient is receiving ongoing treatment, monitoring, or evaluation for the nonunion of the closed fracture. It is appropriate for follow-up visits after initial treatment, but before definitive healing or resolution of the nonunion.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "nonunion" and that it is a "subsequent encounter" for a closed fracture.
• Confirm the fracture is specifically an "apophyseal fracture" of the femur, not a different type of femoral fracture.
• This code requires an additional code to specify the laterality (right or left femur) if known, as this code is for an "unspecified femur."