Oth physl fx low end ulna, left arm, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a non-healing fracture of the growth plate at the lower end of the ulna in the left arm. "Nonunion" indicates that the bone fragments have failed to unite after a typical healing period, requiring ongoing medical management. This is a subsequent encounter, meaning the patient is returning for follow-up care related to this specific fracture complication.

Apply this code for follow-up visits where a patient with a previously diagnosed physeal fracture of the left distal ulna is being treated for nonunion. This includes scenarios such as monitoring the nonunion, discussing surgical intervention for nonunion, or managing complications directly related to the non-healing fracture. Do not use for initial fracture diagnosis or for routine follow-up of a healing fracture.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the left arm.
• Verify this is a subsequent encounter, not an initial treatment or an encounter for a different complication.
• Pair with an external cause code if the cause of the fracture is relevant and not already documented.