Other fracture of unspecified metacarpal bone, sequela

This code signifies a fracture of any metacarpal bone, excluding the thumb, that has resulted in a long-term complication or residual effect. These sequelae can include chronic pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, or deformity persisting after the initial healing phase of the fracture. The specific metacarpal involved is not documented.

This code is appropriate for documenting the late effects of a metacarpal fracture (excluding the thumb) once the acute injury has resolved. It should be used when a patient presents with ongoing issues directly attributable to a previously sustained fracture. This code is also applicable when the specific metacarpal bone affected by the original fracture is not clearly identified in the medical record.

• Always assign this code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific sequela (e.g., M25.541 for pain in right hand).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a past metacarpal fracture.
• Do not use this code for acute or subacute fractures; instead, use the appropriate acute fracture code.