Nondisp fx of sternal end l clavicle, subs for fx w nonunion

This code describes a situation where a patient has a fracture at the sternal (medial) end of their left clavicle that was initially treated, but the bone fragments have failed to heal together after the expected healing period. This indicates a complication of the healing process, specifically a nonunion, for a previously diagnosed and managed fracture.

Use this code for follow-up encounters where a patient is being treated for a left sternal clavicle fracture that has been confirmed as a nonunion. This applies when the patient is receiving ongoing care, such as further surgical intervention, casting, or other management specifically for the nonunion. It should be assigned after the initial healing phase has passed and nonunion has been established.

• Always sequence this code after the appropriate external cause code, if applicable, to describe the mechanism of injury.
• Do not use this code for initial encounters or for fractures that are still in the normal healing phase.
• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the "subsequent encounter" status for the fracture.