Sprain of ribs, sequela

This code signifies a sprain of the ribs that is a late effect or complication of an initial injury. It indicates that the patient is experiencing residual symptoms or conditions directly resulting from a previous rib sprain, rather than an acute injury.

Apply this code when documenting chronic pain, limited range of motion, or other persistent issues in the rib cage that are directly attributable to a past rib sprain. This is appropriate for follow-up encounters where the acute phase of the original injury has passed, but sequelae remain.

• Always use in conjunction with another code identifying the specific sequela (e.g., chronic pain, scar formation).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a previously sustained rib sprain.
• Do not use for acute rib sprains; those require codes from the initial encounter category.