Nondisp fx of lateral malleolus of l fibula, 7thG

This code describes a fracture of the outer ankle bone (lateral malleolus) of the left fibula that is still healing, but not as quickly as expected. The bone fragments remain in their normal anatomical position, and the skin over the fracture is intact.

Use this code for follow-up encounters where a patient with a previously diagnosed nondisplaced left lateral malleolus fracture is experiencing delayed healing. This applies when the fracture has not united within the expected timeframe for this type of injury, but there are no signs of nonunion or malunion yet.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "delayed healing" and specifies the left lateral malleolus.
• Verify the fracture is indeed nondisplaced and closed; different codes apply for displaced, open, or other malleolar fractures.
• This "G" seventh character indicates subsequent care for delayed healing; use "A" for initial encounter and "K" for nonunion.