Pathological fracture, right hand, subs for fx w malunion

This code signifies a fracture in the right hand that occurred due to a pre-existing disease process, not trauma, and is currently being treated for a complication where the bone has healed in an abnormal position (malunion). This indicates ongoing management of the improperly healed pathological fracture.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care, rehabilitation, or further surgical intervention for a right hand pathological fracture that has healed incorrectly. Documentation should clearly state "pathological fracture," specify the right hand, confirm malunion, and indicate that this is not the initial encounter for the fracture.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "pathological fracture" and not a traumatic fracture.
• Verify the laterality (right hand) and the presence of malunion.
• This "P" seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter for a fracture with malunion; do not use for initial care or routine healing.