Late effect of fracture of upper extremities

This code signifies a condition or symptom that arises as a residual effect of a previously healed fracture of the upper extremities (shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, wrist, hand). It indicates that the original acute injury has resolved, but its long-term consequences are still present and require medical attention.

Use this code when a patient presents with a chronic problem directly attributable to an old fracture of an upper limb, such as persistent pain, limited range of motion, nonunion, malunion, or nerve damage. Documentation should clearly link the current condition to a past upper extremity fracture and indicate that the acute phase of the fracture has passed.

• Always sequence this code after the code identifying the specific late effect (e.g., malunion, nonunion, pain).
• Do not use for acute fractures or complications occurring during the initial healing phase.
• Ensure documentation specifies the affected upper extremity and the nature of the late effect.