Pathological fracture, left ulna, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a fracture of the left ulna that occurred due to a pre-existing disease process, rather than trauma. The patient is in a phase of treatment where the fracture is not healing at the expected rate, indicating delayed union. This code is used for follow-up care after the initial treatment of the pathological fracture.

Apply this code when a patient presents for ongoing management of a left ulnar pathological fracture that is exhibiting delayed healing. Documentation should clearly state the pathological nature of the fracture, specify the left ulna, and indicate that the healing process is prolonged or complicated. This is appropriate for subsequent visits after the initial diagnosis and treatment.

• Always sequence the underlying disease causing the pathological fracture (e.g., osteoporosis, neoplasm) before this code.
• Ensure documentation explicitly states "delayed healing" or similar terminology for the fracture.
• Distinguish from nonunion (M84.432P) or routine healing (M84.432D) which have different codes.