S92.352G Displaced fracture of fifth metatarsal bone, left foot, subsequent encounter for fracture with delayed healing

Name of the Condition

• Technical Term: Displaced fracture of fifth metatarsal bone, left foot, subsequent encounter for fracture with delayed healing
• Common Name: Broken fifth metatarsal (left foot) with delayed healing

Summary

A displaced fracture of the fifth metatarsal bone in the left foot, with delayed healing, refers to a break where bone fragments are misaligned and healing has not progressed as expected during a follow-up visit. The fifth metatarsal is the long bone on the outer edge of the foot, and delayed healing may require adjusted treatment to promote recovery. This code is used for encounters after the initial injury when healing is slower than anticipated.

Causes

Direct trauma to the foot, such as a fall, twist, or impact, is the primary cause of the initial fracture. Delayed healing may result from factors like inadequate immobilization, poor blood supply to the bone, or underlying conditions that impair healing (e.g., diabetes, smoking). Repetitive stress from activities like running or jumping can also contribute to the initial fracture and may affect healing.

Risk Factors

• Participation in high-impact sports (e.g., basketball, soccer)
• Wearing improper or non-supportive footwear
• Conditions that weaken bones or impair healing, such as osteoporosis, diabetes, or vascular disease
• Advanced age, which may reduce bone density and healing capacity
• Smoking or poor nutrition, which can slow bone repair
• Previous foot injuries or fractures in the same area

Symptoms

• Persistent pain and tenderness on the outer edge of the left foot
• Swelling or bruising that does not improve over time
• Difficulty bearing weight on the left foot, even with support
• Possible deformity if the fracture remains displaced
• Limited range of motion in the foot or ankle

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider will perform a physical examination to assess pain, swelling, and alignment. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or CT scans, are typically used to evaluate fracture healing and check for signs of delayed union. Additional tests (e.g., blood work) may be ordered to identify underlying conditions affecting healing.

Treatment Options

Treatment focuses on promoting healing and may include:

• Extended immobilization with a cast or boot to stabilize the fracture
• Modified weight-bearing instructions to reduce stress on the bone
• Pain management with medications or physical therapy
• In some cases, surgical intervention to realign fragments or stimulate healing (e.g., bone grafting)
• Monitoring with repeat imaging to track progress

Prognosis and Follow-Up

Most fractures with delayed healing eventually heal with appropriate treatment, but recovery may take longer than typical. Follow-up visits are essential to assess healing and adjust care. Complications like nonunion (failure to heal) or malunion (healing in incorrect alignment) may require further intervention. Adherence to treatment plans and lifestyle modifications can improve outcomes.

Complications

• Nonunion: The fracture fails to heal, requiring surgical correction
• Malunion: The bone heals in a misaligned position, affecting foot function
• Chronic pain or instability in the foot
• Increased risk of future fractures in the same area
• Nerve or tissue damage from prolonged immobilization

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Wear supportive, properly fitting footwear to reduce stress on the foot
• Avoid high-impact activities until cleared by a healthcare provider
• Maintain a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health
• Manage underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes) that may impair healing
• Gradually resume activity as healing progresses, following medical guidance

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek care if:

• Pain, swelling, or bruising worsens or does not improve
• You cannot bear weight on the left foot after treatment
• You notice new deformity or instability in the foot
• Healing does not progress as expected during follow-up visits

Tips for Medical Coders

Use this code for a subsequent encounter (after the initial injury) when a displaced fracture of the left fifth metatarsal is documented with delayed healing. Ensure documentation specifies "delayed healing" to justify the code. Verify the encounter is not the initial treatment or a routine follow-up without healing concerns. Document the affected side (left foot) and fracture displacement to support code accuracy.