Path fx in oth dis, unsp tibia & fibula, 7thG

This code signifies a fracture of the tibia and/or fibula that occurred due to an underlying disease process, rather than trauma, and is currently experiencing delayed healing. It indicates that the patient is receiving active treatment for the fracture during this encounter, but the healing process is not progressing as expected.

Apply this code for follow-up encounters where a patient with a pathological fracture of the tibia and/or fibula, caused by a condition like osteoporosis or metastatic bone disease, is being managed for delayed union or nonunion. Documentation should clearly state the pathological nature of the fracture, the specific bone(s) involved, and the ongoing issue of delayed healing.

• Always sequence the underlying disease causing the pathological fracture first, followed by this code.
• Ensure documentation specifies "delayed healing" or "delayed union" for appropriate use of the "G" seventh character.
• Distinguish from nonunion (K) or routine healing (D, P, S) seventh characters.