Oth fx low end r tibia, 7thN

This code signifies a fracture of the lower portion of the right tibia, excluding the malleolus, that is not healing properly (nonunion) and was initially an open fracture of severe type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC). The "subsequent encounter" indicates that the patient is receiving follow-up care for this previously diagnosed and treated injury.

Apply this code when documenting ongoing treatment or management of a patient with a nonunion of a severe open fracture of the distal right tibia. This is appropriate for encounters where the focus is on addressing the nonunion, such as surgical planning for revision, bone grafting, or prolonged immobilization.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the initial open fracture type (IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC).
• Verify the fracture location is the lower end of the tibia, not including the ankle malleoli.
• This code is for subsequent encounters; use an initial encounter code for the initial treatment of the fracture.