Pathological fracture, left tibia, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a fracture of the left tibia that occurred due to an underlying disease process, rather than trauma, and is currently in a stage of nonunion. Nonunion indicates that the bone has failed to heal completely after a previous attempt. This specific code is used when the patient is receiving active treatment for the nonunion.

This code is appropriate for patients presenting for ongoing management of a left tibial pathological fracture that has not healed. Documentation should clearly state "pathological fracture," specify the left tibia, and confirm the presence of nonunion, with the encounter being for active treatment of this nonunion. Examples include follow-up visits for surgical intervention for nonunion or continued conservative management.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "pathological fracture" to differentiate from traumatic fractures.
• Verify the laterality (left tibia) is clearly documented.
• Confirm the encounter is for active treatment of the nonunion; use a different seventh character for routine healing or sequelae.