Contus/lac cereb, w LOC >24 hr w/o ret consc w surv, init

This code signifies a severe traumatic brain injury involving bruising and tearing of the cerebrum, where the patient experiences a coma or vegetative state lasting longer than 24 hours. The patient's level of consciousness does not return to their baseline prior to the injury, but they survive the initial hospitalization.

Apply this code for patients presenting with a documented cerebral contusion and laceration who remain in a profound altered mental state (e.g., coma, persistent vegetative state) for over 24 hours post-injury, with no recovery to their pre-injury cognitive function. Documentation must clearly indicate the duration of unconsciousness and the patient's survival of the initial acute care.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "loss of consciousness greater than 24 hours" and "without return to pre-existing conscious level."
• This code is for the initial encounter for the injury; subsequent care would use the appropriate seventh character.
• Distinguish from codes where consciousness returns or the duration of unconsciousness is shorter.