Nondisp fx of shaft of 5th MC bone, l hand, 7thP

This code describes a fracture of the shaft of the fifth metacarpal bone in the left hand that was initially nondisplaced but has since healed improperly. "Malunion" indicates that the bone fragments have united in a deformed position, which may lead to functional impairment. This specific code is used when the patient is receiving follow-up care for this malunited fracture.

This code is appropriate for subsequent encounters when a patient is being treated for complications arising from a malunited fracture of the fifth metacarpal shaft. This could include evaluations for pain, limited range of motion, or surgical planning to correct the malunion. It should be used after the initial treatment of the acute fracture has concluded and the malunion has been identified.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "malunion" and specifies the fifth metacarpal shaft and left hand.
• Verify that the encounter is for follow-up care of the malunion, not for the initial acute fracture.
• Do not use this code if the fracture is still in the process of healing normally (use a "subsequent encounter for fracture with routine healing" code).