Abrasion of scalp, sequela

This code signifies a superficial injury to the scalp, characterized by a scrape or rub that removes the outer layer of skin, occurring as a late effect or complication of an initial injury. It indicates that the abrasion is no longer an acute injury but rather a residual condition.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a patient is presenting for treatment or evaluation of a sequela resulting from a prior scalp abrasion. This is appropriate when the initial acute injury has healed, but a lasting effect (e.g., scarring, chronic pain, cosmetic defect) is being addressed. Documentation should specify the abrasion as a "sequela" or "late effect."

• Always sequence this code after the code identifying the specific sequela (e.g., scar, chronic pain).
• Do not use this code for acute scalp abrasions; those require codes from the S00.01X_ category without the "S" seventh character.
• Ensure the medical record explicitly links the current condition to a past scalp abrasion and identifies it as a sequela.