Unsp physeal fx lower end of l tibia, subs for fx w nonunion

This code indicates a fracture of the growth plate at the lower end of the left shin bone, where the specific type of physeal fracture is not documented. The fracture has failed to heal properly, resulting in a nonunion, and the patient is presenting for follow-up care related to this ongoing issue.

Apply this code when a patient is seen for continued management of an unhealed growth plate fracture of the distal left tibia. This is appropriate for encounters where the initial injury has already been diagnosed and treatment for the nonunion is being addressed. It signifies a later stage of care for a persistent fracture complication.

• Ensure documentation specifies "nonunion" and "subsequent encounter" for accurate code assignment.
• Verify the fracture location is the lower end of the left tibia and the fracture type is unspecified physeal.
• Do not use for initial treatment or routine follow-up of a healing fracture.