Oth fx upper end of unsp tibia, subs for clos fx w nonunion

This code describes a fracture in the upper portion of the tibia (shin bone) that is not otherwise specified as a specific type of fracture, and is currently in a stage of nonunion. Nonunion means the fracture has failed to heal completely after a reasonable period, and the patient is presenting for follow-up care related to this ongoing healing issue.

This code is appropriate for subsequent encounters when a patient is being treated for a previously diagnosed, unspecified fracture of the proximal tibia that has not healed and is now considered a nonunion. This would include visits for ongoing management, evaluation of nonunion, or preparation for further intervention.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "nonunion" and specifies the "upper end" of the tibia.
• Verify the encounter is "subsequent" and not the initial treatment for the fracture.
• Confirm the fracture was initially closed; if open, a different seventh character would apply.