Oth fx l low leg, subs for opn fx type I/2 w nonunion

This code signifies a non-healing fracture in the lower portion of the left leg, excluding the ankle, that was initially an open fracture where the bone broke through the skin (Type I or II). The patient is currently in a phase of treatment for this persistent nonunion.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a previously diagnosed open fracture of the left lower leg (tibia, fibula, or both, excluding the malleoli) that has failed to heal properly. This is appropriate for subsequent encounters where the nonunion is being actively managed.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the initial fracture was an "open fracture type I or II."
• Verify the fracture location is the lower leg, excluding the ankle.
• This code is for subsequent encounters, not the initial treatment of the fracture.