In simple words: This code documents a past, fully healed stress fracture in a bone.

Personal history of a healed stress fracture. This code indicates a past stress fracture that has completely healed.A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone, or severe bruising within a bone, caused by repetitive overuse and stress. Most stress fractures occur in the weight-bearing bones of the lower leg and foot.

Example 1: A patient presents for a routine physical. During the exam, they mention a past stress fracture in their tibia that occurred several years ago and is now completely healed. The provider documents this using Z87.312., A patient with a history of multiple stress fractures is seen for evaluation of osteoporosis.The provider documents the osteoporosis diagnosis and the history of stress fractures using Z87.312., A patient is seen for knee pain.During the history, the patient reports a prior stress fracture in the same leg. The healed stress fracture is noted using Z87.312 but is not the primary reason for the visit.

Documentation should clearly indicate that the stress fracture is healed and not a current condition.Supporting documentation might include previous imaging studies, medical records, or a clear statement from the patient confirming the fracture's complete healing.

** This code is exempt from the Present on Admission (POA) reporting requirement.