Injury of olfactory nerve, left side, initial encounter

This code signifies a traumatic injury to the left olfactory nerve, which is responsible for the sense of smell. Such an injury can lead to anosmia (complete loss of smell) or hyposmia (reduced sense of smell) on the affected side. This specific code indicates that the patient is in the initial phase of treatment for this injury.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a new, acute injury to the left olfactory nerve due to trauma, such as a head injury or facial fracture. Supporting documentation should specify the side affected (left) and confirm that the patient is presenting for the initial evaluation and management of this injury. This code is appropriate for the first encounter related to the injury.

• Ensure documentation specifies "left side" and "initial encounter" to accurately assign this code.
• Distinguish from injuries to other cranial nerves; this code is specific to the first cranial nerve (olfactory).
• For subsequent encounters related to the healing or sequelae of this injury, a different seventh character (D or S) would be appended.