Stress fracture, unsp site, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a stress fracture at an unspecified anatomical location that has failed to heal properly, requiring ongoing medical attention. It indicates that the patient is presenting for follow-up care related to this nonunion.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a stress fracture with nonunion, and the patient is seen for subsequent treatment, such as cast changes, physical therapy, or evaluation for surgical intervention. Ensure the medical record specifies "nonunion" and that the encounter is not for the initial injury.

• Always seek to identify the specific anatomical site of the stress fracture (e.g., M84.350K for stress fracture of the tibia) before resorting to the unspecified code.
• Confirm the "subsequent encounter" status; initial treatment for nonunion would use a different encounter character.
• Ensure documentation explicitly states "nonunion" rather than delayed union, which is coded differently.