Stress fracture, unsp hand, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a stress fracture affecting an unspecified bone within the hand, indicating that the specific carpal, metacarpal, or phalangeal bone involved is not documented. The "G" seventh character specifies that this is a subsequent encounter for the fracture, and the healing process is progressing slower than anticipated.

Use this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a previously diagnosed stress fracture of the hand, and the provider's documentation explicitly states "delayed healing." This code is appropriate for encounters involving cast changes, physical therapy, or medication management related to the ongoing, slow-healing fracture.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "delayed healing" for the seventh character "G." If healing is routine, a different seventh character (e.g., "D" for routine healing) would be appropriate.
• Avoid using this code if the specific hand bone (e.g., scaphoid, metacarpal) is identified; instead, use a more specific code from the M84.34- series.
• This code is for stress fractures only; do not use for acute traumatic fractures.