Oth fx upr end l tibia, 7thN

This code signifies a fracture in the upper portion of the left shin bone, excluding the specific condylar or tuberosity fractures. It indicates that the fracture was initially an open fracture of a severe type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) and is now being treated for a nonunion, meaning the bone has failed to heal properly.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care or treatment of a nonunion of a previously diagnosed severe open fracture of the proximal left tibia, where the initial fracture was not a condylar or tuberosity type. This would include scenarios such as surgical intervention for nonunion, casting changes, or ongoing monitoring of the unhealed fracture.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the "subsequent encounter" for treatment.
• Verify the original fracture was an open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC, and not a condylar or tuberosity fracture.
• Always sequence this code after the primary reason for the encounter, if applicable.