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

This code describes a fracture of the tibia and/or fibula that occurred due to an underlying disease process, rather than trauma, and has healed improperly (malunion). This specific code is used when the patient is receiving follow-up care for this malunited pathological fracture.

Use this code for patients presenting for ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, or evaluation of a malunited pathological fracture of the lower leg (tibia/fibula) that resulted from a systemic condition. Documentation should clearly state "pathological fracture," "malunion," and indicate a subsequent encounter for the fracture.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "malunion" and not "nonunion" (which has a different code series).
• Always code the underlying disease causing the pathological fracture first, if known and still active.
• Verify laterality if specified in the documentation; this code is for an unspecified side.