Bent bone of l rad, subs for opn fx type 3A/B/C w nonunion

This code signifies a left radial shaft fracture that has not healed (nonunion) and has resulted in a bent or malformed bone. It specifically applies to open fractures classified as Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC, indicating significant soft tissue damage and contamination. This is a subsequent encounter code, meaning the patient is receiving ongoing care for this unhealed fracture.

Use this code for follow-up visits where a patient with a previously diagnosed open Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC fracture of the left radius presents with evidence of nonunion and a visible deformity (bent bone). This code is appropriate when the provider is managing the nonunion, considering further interventions, or monitoring the patient's progress after initial treatment.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the "bent bone" deformity of the left radius.
• Verify the original fracture was an open Type IIIA, IIIB, or IIIC to align with the code's specificity.
• This is a subsequent encounter code; do not use for the initial treatment of the fracture.