Abrasion of nose, sequela

This code signifies a superficial injury to the skin of the nose, characterized by scraping or rubbing off of the epidermal layer, that is a late effect or complication of an earlier injury. It indicates that the abrasion itself is no longer an active injury but rather a residual condition or chronic scar resulting from a previous nasal abrasion.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a sequela (late effect) of an abrasion to the nose, such as a chronic scar, disfigurement, or persistent skin changes directly attributable to a past nasal abrasion. This code is appropriate when the initial acute injury has healed, and the patient is now being treated for a long-term consequence. Documentation should specify the nature of the sequela and its link to a prior abrasion.

• Always sequence the sequela code first, followed by any additional codes to identify the specific nature of the sequela (e.g., scar, disfigurement).
• Do not use this code for an active, acute abrasion; use the appropriate acute injury code.
• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "sequela," "late effect," or describes a chronic condition resulting from a past abrasion.