Contusion of scalp, subsequent encounter

This code signifies a bruise or superficial injury to the soft tissues of the scalp, occurring during a follow-up visit for the initial injury. It indicates extravasation of blood into the subcutaneous tissue without an open wound, observed during a subsequent encounter.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care, such as wound checks, medication adjustments, or monitoring of healing, after an initial diagnosis of a scalp contusion. Documentation should clearly state "contusion of scalp" and specify that the visit is not for the initial treatment of the injury.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "subsequent encounter" or indicates follow-up care for the contusion.
• Do not use for initial treatment of the contusion; refer to the initial encounter codes.
• Distinguish from open wounds of the scalp, which require different code categories.