Fracture of unsp phalanx of right little finger, sequela

This code indicates a long-term complication or residual effect stemming from a prior fracture of an unspecified phalanx in the right little finger. This could include chronic pain, stiffness, deformity, nonunion, or malunion that persists after the initial healing phase of the fracture. It signifies that the original injury is no longer acute, but its lasting impact is still present and requires ongoing management.

Apply this code when documenting a patient presenting with a current condition directly attributable to a previously sustained fracture of the right little finger phalanx. This is appropriate for follow-up visits addressing chronic issues like limited range of motion, persistent pain, or cosmetic deformity resulting from the old injury. It should be used when the acute fracture has already healed, but its sequelae are being treated.

• Always use this code as a secondary diagnosis, with the primary diagnosis describing the specific sequela (e.g., chronic pain, malunion).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to the previous right little finger phalanx fracture.
• Verify that the "S" seventh character is appropriate, indicating a sequela, rather than an initial encounter or subsequent encounter for the acute fracture.