Greenstick fx shaft of rad, left arm, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a specific type of incomplete fracture, a greenstick fracture, affecting the shaft of the left radius. The "greenstick" nature indicates that the bone is bent and broken on one side, similar to a young tree branch. The "subsequent encounter for fracture with nonunion" specifies that this is not the initial treatment, and the fracture has failed to heal properly.

Use this code for follow-up encounters where a patient is being treated for a previously diagnosed greenstick fracture of the left radial shaft that has not united. This applies when the physician is actively managing the nonunion, such as considering or performing further interventions like bone grafting or revision surgery. It would also be used for monitoring the nonunion's progress.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "greenstick fracture" and specifies the "shaft of radius" on the "left arm."
• Verify that the encounter is for ongoing management of a nonunion, not initial treatment or routine follow-up of a healing fracture.
• Always code additional external cause codes (e.g., V00-Y99) to describe the circumstances of the injury, if known.