Stress fracture, right femur, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a stress fracture of the right femur that has not healed properly after initial treatment. It indicates a complication where the bone fragments have failed to unite, requiring further medical attention. The "subsequent encounter" aspect specifies that this is not the initial diagnosis or treatment for the fracture.

Apply this code when a patient presents for ongoing management or treatment of a right femoral stress fracture that has progressed to nonunion. Documentation should clearly state "nonunion" or "failed healing" of a previously diagnosed right femoral stress fracture. This code is appropriate for follow-up visits, surgical interventions for nonunion, or conservative management of the nonunion.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "nonunion" and specifies the right femur.
• Distinguish from initial stress fracture (M84.351A) or routine healing (M84.351D, M84.351G, M84.351P).
• Consider sequencing with external cause codes (e.g., W00-Y38) if the stress fracture was due to an external cause, and codes for any associated procedures.