Disp fx of middle phalanx of left lesser toe(s), sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication or late effect stemming from a previously displaced fracture of the middle phalanx of one or more of the lesser toes on the left foot. It indicates that the initial injury has healed, but the patient is now experiencing residual issues directly attributable to that past fracture. These sequelae might include chronic pain, deformity, limited range of motion, or nonunion.

This code is appropriate when documenting conditions that are a direct consequence of a healed, displaced fracture of the middle phalanx of the left lesser toe(s). It should be used when the patient presents for treatment of these persistent problems, not for the initial acute fracture. Examples include chronic pain at the fracture site years after healing, or a fixed deformity resulting from the original injury.

• Always sequence this sequela code after the code for the specific manifestation of the sequela (e.g., chronic pain, malunion).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to the past displaced fracture of the left middle phalanx of the lesser toe(s).
• Do not use this code for the initial treatment of the acute fracture; use the appropriate acute fracture code instead.