Stress fracture, right ankle, initial encounter for fracture

This code signifies a stress fracture affecting the right ankle, meaning a hairline break caused by repetitive stress rather than a single traumatic event. It indicates that the patient is presenting for the initial treatment or evaluation of this specific fracture.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a stress fracture of the right ankle and the patient is in the active treatment phase. This includes initial diagnosis, casting, or surgical repair. Supporting documentation would include imaging reports confirming the stress fracture and physician notes detailing the initial assessment and treatment plan.

• Ensure laterality is accurately documented (right vs. left ankle).
• Verify the encounter type; "A" is for initial encounter, subsequent encounters will use different seventh characters.
• Distinguish from acute traumatic fractures, which would be coded differently.