Oth fracture of unsp lum vertebra, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a fracture of a lumbar vertebra, excluding the first sacral segment, that is not specified as a burst, compression, or other specific type. The patient is in a subsequent phase of care, and the fracture is experiencing delayed healing, meaning the expected healing time has been exceeded.

This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters where a patient with a previously diagnosed, unspecified lumbar vertebral fracture is presenting with evidence of delayed union or nonunion. This would include situations where imaging studies show insufficient callus formation or persistent fracture lines beyond the typical healing period.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "delayed healing" or similar terminology for the fracture.
• Verify that the encounter is for follow-up care, not the initial treatment of the fracture.
• Confirm the fracture location is within the lumbar spine and not specified as a particular type (e.g., compression).