Cracked nipple associated with lactation

This code signifies a painful fissure or break in the skin of the nipple, directly resulting from or exacerbated by breastfeeding or milk production. It indicates a physical injury to the nipple tissue occurring during the lactation period.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states "cracked nipple" and explicitly links it to breastfeeding, pumping, or the postpartum lactation phase. Supporting documentation would include notes from a lactation consultant, obstetrician, or pediatrician detailing the nipple trauma in a lactating individual.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "cracked" or "fissured" nipple, not just "sore" or "painful" nipples, unless a crack is explicitly noted.
• This code is specific to lactation; do not use it for cracked nipples unrelated to breastfeeding (e.g., dermatitis).
• Consider sequencing this code after a code for the encounter for postpartum care or routine lactation management, if applicable.