Other fracture of third metacarpal bone, left hand, sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication or residual effect stemming from a previous fracture of the third metacarpal bone in the patient's left hand. This could include chronic pain, nonunion, malunion, deformity, or restricted range of motion directly attributable to the original injury. The "sequela" designation indicates that the acute phase of the fracture has passed, and the current encounter addresses the lasting consequences.

Apply this code when documenting an encounter for a patient presenting with ongoing issues related to a healed or previously treated fracture of the left third metacarpal. This is appropriate for follow-up visits addressing chronic pain, functional limitations, or surgical interventions to correct deformities resulting from the initial fracture. It should not be used for the initial acute fracture treatment.

• Always sequence the sequela code first, followed by any additional codes identifying the specific nature of the sequela (e.g., chronic pain, nonunion).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to the previous left third metacarpal fracture.
• Distinguish from acute fracture codes (which would not include the "S" seventh character) and codes for current injuries.