Oth fx upper end of r tibia, subs for clos fx w delay heal

This code signifies a fracture in the upper portion of the right tibia, excluding the tibial plateau or tuberosity, that is currently in a healing phase but is progressing slower than expected. The fracture was initially closed, meaning the skin remained intact, and the patient is now receiving follow-up care for this ongoing healing process.

Apply this code when a patient presents for a follow-up visit for a previously diagnosed closed fracture of the upper end of the right tibia, and the physician documents that the healing is delayed. This is appropriate for subsequent encounters where the focus is on managing the delayed union of the fracture.

• Ensure physician documentation explicitly states "delayed healing" or "delayed union" for a closed fracture of the upper right tibia.
• This code is for subsequent encounters; an initial encounter for the acute fracture would use a different code.
• Confirm the fracture location is specifically the "upper end" and not the tibial plateau or tuberosity, which have distinct codes.