Nondisp fx of shaft of MC bone, subs for fx w delay heal

This code describes a fracture of the shaft of a metacarpal bone (excluding the first metacarpal, or thumb) that is not displaced, meaning the bone fragments are still in their normal alignment. The "subsequent encounter" indicates that the patient is receiving follow-up care for this fracture, and "delayed healing" signifies that the bone is not mending at the expected rate.

Use this code when a patient presents for a follow-up visit for a previously diagnosed, nondisplaced shaft fracture of the second, third, fourth, or fifth metacarpal. This code is appropriate when the physician documents that the fracture is not healing as anticipated, requiring ongoing management or intervention. It should be used after the initial treatment phase.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nondisplaced" and identifies the affected metacarpal as other than the thumb.
• Verify that the encounter is for follow-up care and that the physician explicitly notes "delayed healing" of the fracture.
• Pair this code with external cause codes (e.g., V00-Y99) if the cause of the fracture is known and relevant to the encounter.