Wedge comprsn fx third lum vertebra, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a wedge-shaped compression fracture of the third lumbar vertebra that has failed to heal properly. The patient is in a phase of treatment or recovery for this specific fracture, and the nonunion indicates that the bone fragments have not fused together after a reasonable healing period.

Apply this code when documenting follow-up care for a patient previously diagnosed with a wedge compression fracture of the L3 vertebra, and the physician explicitly states or implies that the fracture has not united. This includes scenarios such as ongoing conservative management for nonunion, evaluation for surgical intervention due to nonunion, or post-surgical care for a nonunion repair.

• Always verify documentation explicitly states "nonunion" for the L3 wedge compression fracture.
• Ensure the encounter is "subsequent" and not initial care for the fracture.
• Do not use this code if the fracture has healed or is still in the active healing phase without evidence of nonunion.