Nondisplaced fracture of head of unspecified radius, sequela

This code describes a healed or residual condition resulting from a fracture of the radial head that was initially nondisplaced. It indicates that the patient is experiencing ongoing problems or complications directly attributable to the previous injury, even though the acute fracture has resolved.

Use this code when documenting a patient presenting with long-term complications such as pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, or deformity in the elbow or forearm, directly linked to a previously sustained nondisplaced radial head fracture. This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters after the initial healing period, where the sequelae are being addressed.

• Requires a seventh character "S" to indicate sequela, meaning the condition is a late effect of the injury.
• Do not use for acute or active fractures; those require different seventh characters.
• Always link this code to a secondary diagnosis code describing the specific sequela (e.g., M25.521 for pain in right elbow, M24.521 for contracture of right elbow).