Unspecified injury of face, sequela

This code signifies a lasting effect or complication stemming from an unspecified injury to the face, where the original injury itself is no longer acute. It describes a residual condition, such as scarring, chronic pain, or nerve damage, that persists after the initial facial trauma has healed. The specific nature of the original injury is not documented or is unknown.

Use this code when a patient presents with a current problem directly attributable to a past, unspecified facial injury. Documentation should clearly indicate a sequela (late effect) and the anatomical site (face), but lack specificity regarding the original injury type. This code is appropriate for follow-up visits addressing chronic issues related to the old injury.

• Always sequence the sequela code first, followed by a code for the specific residual condition (e.g., scar, chronic pain).
• Ensure documentation explicitly states "sequela," "late effect," or a similar term indicating a residual condition from a past injury.
• Avoid using this code if the original facial injury is still acute or if a more specific sequela code for the face is available.