Fracture of alveolus of maxilla, sequela

This code describes a fracture of the alveolar process of the maxilla, which is the part of the upper jawbone that contains the tooth sockets, when the fracture's effects are considered a late effect or sequela. This indicates that the initial injury has healed, but residual problems or complications directly attributable to the original fracture persist.

This code is appropriate for documenting long-term complications or conditions arising from a previously sustained fracture of the maxillary alveolus. Examples include malunion, nonunion, chronic pain, nerve damage, or persistent dental issues directly linked to the old fracture. Documentation should clearly state the connection between the current condition and the prior alveolar fracture, indicating it's a sequela.

• Always use an additional code to specify the nature of the sequela (e.g., malunion, nonunion, chronic pain).
• Ensure documentation explicitly states the condition is a "sequela" or "late effect" of the prior fracture.
• Do not use for acute or initial treatment of an alveolar fracture; those require codes from the acute injury section.