Other fracture of occiput, left side, 7thK

This code signifies a fracture of the left occipital bone that is not healing properly after initial treatment. "Nonunion" indicates that the bone fragments have failed to unite and heal completely. This is a subsequent encounter, meaning the patient is receiving follow-up care for this ongoing fracture complication.

Apply this code when a patient presents for ongoing management of a previously diagnosed left occipital fracture that has developed nonunion. Documentation should clearly state "nonunion" of the left occiput and indicate that this is not the initial treatment encounter for the fracture. This code is appropriate for follow-up visits, imaging, or procedures related to addressing the nonunion.

• Ensure laterality (left) is explicitly documented for the occipital fracture.
• Confirm "nonunion" is clearly stated; do not use for malunion or delayed healing.
• Verify this is a subsequent encounter; initial treatment for the fracture would use a different encounter character.