Stress fracture, left ankle, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a stress fracture in the left ankle that is currently undergoing treatment for delayed healing. It indicates that the patient has previously received initial care for this fracture, and the healing process is not progressing as expected.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a left ankle stress fracture with delayed healing, and the patient is presenting for follow-up care related to this ongoing issue. Supporting documentation should include notes detailing the delayed healing, such as persistent pain, lack of callus formation on imaging, or prolonged recovery time.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "delayed healing" and not nonunion or malunion, which have distinct codes.
• Verify the laterality (left ankle) is explicitly stated in the medical record.
• This code requires a seventh character "G" for subsequent encounter with delayed healing; do not use "A" for initial encounter or "P" for subsequent encounter with malunion.