Pathological fracture, left humerus, subs for fx w malunion

This code signifies a pathological fracture of the left humerus that has healed incorrectly, resulting in a malunion. A pathological fracture occurs due to a disease process weakening the bone, rather than from trauma. The "subsequent encounter" indicates the patient is receiving routine care during the healing or recovery phase of the malunion.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care, cast changes, physical therapy, or other ongoing management related to a left humeral pathological fracture that has healed in a misaligned position. Documentation should clearly state a pathological fracture, left humerus involvement, the presence of malunion, and that the encounter is for subsequent care.

• Always sequence the underlying disease causing the pathological fracture first, if known and still active.
• Distinguish carefully between malunion (healed incorrectly) and nonunion (failed to heal), as different codes apply.
• Ensure documentation specifies "left" humerus; laterality is crucial for accurate coding.