Stress fracture, unsp shoulder, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a stress fracture affecting an unspecified shoulder bone that has failed to heal properly after initial treatment. It indicates a chronic healing complication where the bone fragments have not united, requiring ongoing medical management.

Apply this code for follow-up encounters where a patient is being treated for a previously diagnosed shoulder stress fracture that has developed nonunion. Documentation should clearly state "nonunion" or "failed healing" of a stress fracture in the shoulder.

• Requires documentation of "nonunion" or "failed healing" of a stress fracture.
• The "K" seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter for a nonunion.
• Do not use for initial treatment of a stress fracture or for routine follow-up of a healing fracture without nonunion.