Third degree perineal laceration during delivery, unsp

This code signifies a severe obstetric laceration involving the perineum, extending through the anal sphincter complex (both external and internal) and into the anal epithelium, occurring during the process of childbirth. It indicates the most extensive degree of perineal trauma without further specification of the type of delivery or the specific nature of the laceration.

Use this code when documentation clearly states a third-degree perineal laceration occurred during a delivery, and no further details regarding the laceration's specific characteristics (e.g., complete vs. incomplete, involving specific sphincter muscles) are provided. This code is appropriate when the medical record confirms the depth of the tear reaching the anal epithelium.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "third degree" and "during delivery."
• Do not use this code if the laceration is documented as fourth degree; a different code exists for that severity.
• Always sequence this code after the appropriate delivery code (e.g., O80, O82) and any other complications of labor and delivery.