Unsp physl fx lower end unsp tibia, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a fracture of the growth plate (physis) at the lower end of the shin bone (tibia) in an unspecified leg, which has failed to heal properly after initial treatment. The "subsequent encounter" indicates that the patient is receiving ongoing care for this unhealed fracture.

Use this code for follow-up visits where a patient is being managed for a previously diagnosed physeal fracture of the distal tibia that has developed nonunion. This includes evaluations, cast changes, or discussions about further surgical intervention for the nonunion.

• Always ensure documentation clearly states "nonunion" for the fracture.
• Verify the encounter is for follow-up care, not the initial treatment of the fracture.
• If the laterality (left or right tibia) is specified, a more specific code should be used.