Unsp fracture of metacarpal bone, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a fracture of a metacarpal bone other than the thumb (first metacarpal) that has not been specified further, and the patient is presenting for follow-up care due to the fracture healing slower than expected. This indicates a complication in the bone repair process, requiring ongoing medical management.

Apply this code when a patient with a previously diagnosed, unspecified fracture of a non-thumb metacarpal bone returns for an appointment where the physician documents delayed healing. This is appropriate for follow-up visits after initial treatment, such as cast changes, physical therapy evaluations, or imaging to assess healing progression, when the healing is not proceeding normally.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "delayed healing" for a subsequent encounter.
• Confirm the fracture is of a metacarpal bone other than the first (thumb) metacarpal.
• This code is for an unspecified metacarpal fracture; if the specific metacarpal (e.g., second, third) is known, a more specific code should be used.