Other fracture of lower end of unspecified ulna, sequela

This code indicates a long-term complication or late effect stemming from a previous fracture of the lower end of the ulna, where the specific side (left or right) is not documented. These sequelae can include chronic pain, nonunion, malunion, post-traumatic arthritis, or functional limitations that persist after the initial fracture has healed.

Use this code when documenting a patient presenting with a current condition directly resulting from an old ulnar fracture, specifically at the distal end, and the laterality is unspecified. This is appropriate for follow-up visits addressing ongoing issues related to the healed fracture, rather than the acute injury itself.

• Always assign this code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific sequela (e.g., M24.539 for contracture of unspecified wrist).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a past ulnar fracture and specifies it as a sequela.
• Avoid using this code for acute fractures; it is exclusively for late effects.