Fracture of lateral orbital wall, unspecified side, 7thG

This code signifies a fracture affecting the outer bony wall of the eye socket, which has not healed as expected and is being managed during a follow-up encounter. It indicates a complication of the healing process, specifically delayed union, for an injury to the lateral orbital wall.

Apply this code for patients presenting for ongoing treatment or evaluation of a previously diagnosed lateral orbital wall fracture that is demonstrating delayed healing. Documentation should clearly state "delayed healing" or similar terminology, and specify the encounter as subsequent to the initial injury.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "delayed healing" for the fracture; otherwise, a routine subsequent encounter code (e.g., S02.849D) may be more appropriate.
• This code is for an unspecified side; if the laterality (left or right) is documented, use the more specific code (S02.841G or S02.842G).
• Always sequence this code after any acute conditions or complications being treated during the same encounter.