Fx unsp phalanx of left thumb, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a fracture of any phalanx (proximal or distal) of the left thumb that is not healing at the expected rate. It indicates that the patient is presenting for follow-up care or treatment related to this delayed healing.

Apply this code when a patient with a previously diagnosed left thumb phalanx fracture presents for an encounter where the fracture is documented as having delayed union or nonunion. This would include scenarios where the patient is undergoing further imaging, physical therapy, or surgical intervention specifically due to the delayed healing process.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "left thumb" and "phalanx" (unspecified if not further detailed).
• Verify that the encounter is for follow-up care related to the fracture's delayed healing, not the initial injury or routine follow-up of a healing fracture.
• Always sequence this code after the appropriate external cause code, if applicable, for the original injury.