Oth fx upr end l rad, subs for opn fx type 3A/B/C w nonunion

This code signifies a nonunion of an open fracture involving the upper end of the left radius, specifically an open fracture type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC. Nonunion indicates that the bone has failed to heal completely after a previous fracture, requiring ongoing medical management.

Apply this code when documenting a patient presenting with a previously diagnosed open fracture of the proximal left radius (types IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC) that has not healed and is now considered a nonunion. This would be used for subsequent encounters related to the management of this nonunion, such as follow-up appointments, further imaging, or surgical planning for revision.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the "subsequent encounter" status for the fracture.
• Verify the original fracture was indeed an open fracture of the upper end of the left radius, classified as type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC.
• Do not use for initial encounters or for fractures that are still in the healing phase without evidence of nonunion.