Injury of facial nerve, left side, sequela

This code signifies a long-term or late effect resulting from a past injury to the facial nerve on the left side of the face. This could manifest as persistent facial weakness, paralysis, or other neurological deficits affecting facial expression, taste, or lacrimation, occurring after the acute phase of the original injury has passed.

Apply this code when documenting residual symptoms or conditions directly attributable to a previous injury of the left facial nerve, such as Bell's palsy, trauma, or surgical complications, that are no longer in their acute phase. Documentation should clearly state the sequela and its causal link to a prior left facial nerve injury.

• Always use this code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific sequela (e.g., facial paralysis, hemifacial spasm).
• Ensure the "S" seventh character is used for sequela, indicating a late effect of the injury.
• Distinguish from acute facial nerve injuries, which would use codes without the "S" seventh character.