Oth physeal fx lower end of l tibia, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a fracture of the growth plate at the distal end of the left tibia, which is not a Salter-Harris type I or II fracture. The fracture has failed to heal properly, resulting in a nonunion, and the patient is presenting for follow-up care or treatment related to this ongoing issue.

This code is appropriate for subsequent encounters when a patient with a previously diagnosed physeal fracture of the lower left tibia is being treated for a nonunion. This includes visits for cast changes, wound care, physical therapy, or surgical planning related to the unhealed fracture. It would also be used for evaluation of the nonunion's progress or complications.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "nonunion" and the "subsequent encounter" status for the fracture.
• Verify the fracture location is the lower end of the left tibia and involves the physis, but is not a Salter-Harris type I or II.
• Always sequence this code after any acute injury codes if the nonunion is a complication of a recent injury.