Unsp fx shaft of left tibia, subs for clos fx w nonunion

This code signifies a left tibia shaft fracture that was not specified as open or closed at the time of initial diagnosis, but is now being treated as a closed fracture. The fracture has failed to heal properly, indicating a nonunion, and the patient is receiving ongoing care for this complication.

Use this code when documenting follow-up care for a patient with a previously diagnosed, unspecific left tibial shaft fracture that is now definitively identified as closed and has developed a nonunion. This applies to encounters where the patient is receiving treatment for the delayed or failed healing process.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "nonunion" and that the fracture is closed for accurate code assignment.
• Verify the laterality (left tibia) and the specific bone shaft are documented.
• This code is for subsequent encounters; an initial encounter for the same fracture would use a different code.