Stress fracture, left finger(s), subs for fx w malunion

This code signifies a stress fracture affecting one or more fingers of the left hand that is currently healing with an unsatisfactory alignment of the bone fragments. A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone, often caused by repetitive stress or overuse, rather than a single traumatic event. Malunion indicates that the fracture has healed, but the alignment of the bone fragments is incorrect, potentially leading to functional impairment.

Apply this code when documentation confirms a left finger stress fracture that has healed in an anatomically incorrect position, and the patient is presenting for follow-up care related to this malunion. This code is appropriate for subsequent encounters where the malunion is being managed, evaluated, or treated. Documentation should clearly state "stress fracture," "left finger(s)," "malunion," and indicate that it's a follow-up visit.

• Ensure documentation specifies "stress fracture" and not a traumatic fracture, as different codes apply.
• Verify laterality (left finger) and the presence of malunion, as opposed to nonunion or routine healing.
• The "P" seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter for a fracture with malunion; do not use for initial care or routine follow-up without malunion.