Contus/lac/hem brainstem w LOC of 1-5 hrs 59 min, sequela

This code signifies a past injury to the brainstem characterized by bruising, tearing, and bleeding, which initially resulted in a loss of consciousness lasting between one and nearly six hours. The "S" at the end indicates that this code is for sequelae, meaning it describes a condition or complication that arises as a direct result of the original injury, even after the acute phase has passed.

Apply this code when documenting a patient presenting with long-term neurological deficits or complications directly attributable to a previously sustained brainstem injury with the specified duration of unconsciousness. Documentation must clearly link the current condition to the prior brainstem trauma and specify the initial loss of consciousness duration.

• This code is for sequelae; an additional code for the current manifestation of the sequela (e.g., cognitive deficits, motor weakness) should always be reported first.
• Ensure the medical record explicitly states the initial loss of consciousness was between 1 hour and 5 hours 59 minutes.
• Do not use this code for the initial acute injury; instead, use the appropriate acute S06.383_ code.