Contusion of left ear, initial encounter

This code signifies a bruise or ecchymosis to the external left ear, resulting from blunt force trauma without an open wound. It indicates damage to the underlying soft tissues, such as skin, subcutaneous tissue, and cartilage, without a laceration or avulsion.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a contusion of the left ear, such as from a fall, sports injury, or assault, and the patient is presenting for initial treatment of this injury. Supporting documentation should include a physical exam noting swelling, discoloration, or tenderness of the left auricle without a break in the skin.

• Ensure laterality is explicitly documented as "left ear" to avoid unspecified ear codes.
• Verify the encounter is truly "initial" for the injury; subsequent encounters for follow-up or healing would use a different seventh character.
• Differentiate from open wounds of the ear (e.g., lacerations) which would be coded under S01.4-.