Disp fx of shaft of metacarpal bone, subs for fx w malunion

This code signifies a previously sustained fracture of the shaft of a metacarpal bone (excluding the thumb or fifth metacarpal) that has healed in an imperfect or misaligned position. The patient is presenting for follow-up care or management of this malunion, not for the initial treatment of the acute fracture.

Apply this code when documenting a patient visit for a known, non-acute, displaced fracture of the shaft of the second, third, or fourth metacarpal that has healed with malunion. This is appropriate for subsequent encounters where the focus is on the assessment or treatment of the malunion itself, such as for pain, functional limitations, or surgical planning for corrective osteotomy.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "malunion" and that the fracture is no longer acute.
• Verify the specific metacarpal bone involved to ensure it's not the thumb (first) or fifth metacarpal.
• This code requires an additional code for any associated complications or sequelae of the malunion.