Pathological fracture, right radius, subs for fx w malunion

This diagnosis code indicates a fracture of the right radius that occurred due to a weakened bone (pathological fracture) and is currently being managed during a follow-up encounter. The key clinical feature is that the previous fracture healed improperly, resulting in a malunion. This implies ongoing treatment or assessment related to the poorly aligned healing of the bone.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a previously sustained pathological fracture of the right radius that has healed in an unsatisfactory alignment. Documentation should clearly state "pathological fracture," specify the right radius, indicate a "subsequent encounter" for care, and explicitly mention "malunion" as the current complication. This code is appropriate for visits addressing the malunion, such as planning for corrective surgery or monitoring its impact.

• Ensure documentation specifies "pathological fracture" and not a traumatic fracture.
• Verify the laterality (right radius) is clearly documented.
• Confirm the encounter is for follow-up care of the fracture with malunion, not the initial treatment or a nonunion.