Nondisp transverse fx shaft of unsp tibia, 7thN

This code describes a transverse fracture of the tibial shaft that is not displaced and has progressed to nonunion, meaning the bone has failed to heal. It specifically applies when the initial injury was an open fracture classified as type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC, indicating significant soft tissue damage and contamination. This code is used during follow-up care after the initial treatment of the fracture.

Use this code for patients presenting for ongoing management of a previously treated open transverse tibial shaft fracture (types IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) where the fracture has failed to unite. This includes scenarios where the patient is undergoing further surgical intervention, conservative management, or evaluation for the nonunion. It is appropriate for encounters occurring after the initial healing phase has passed and nonunion has been confirmed.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "nonunion" and specifies the initial fracture as an open type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC.
• Verify the fracture location is the shaft of the tibia and the fracture pattern is transverse and nondisplaced.
• This code is for subsequent encounters, not the initial treatment of the fracture.