Oth fx lower end of unsp tibia, subs for clos fx w nonunion

This code signifies a fracture of the lower portion of the tibia, excluding the malleolus, that has failed to heal properly after an initial injury. The fracture is closed, meaning the skin remains intact, and the patient is presenting for follow-up care related to this ongoing healing complication.

Apply this code when a patient presents for treatment of a previously diagnosed closed fracture of the distal tibia (excluding the ankle joint) that has not united. This is appropriate for subsequent encounters where the primary focus is managing the nonunion, such as planning for revision surgery or continued conservative management.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and a "subsequent encounter" for the closed fracture.
• Verify the fracture location is the lower end of the tibia, but not specifically the malleolus.
• Do not use for initial encounters or for fractures that have healed or are in the process of routine healing.