Unspecified injury of superior vena cava, sequela

This code signifies a long-term or late effect resulting from an injury to the superior vena cava (SVC) where the specific nature of the initial injury is not documented. It indicates that the patient is experiencing ongoing problems directly attributable to a past, unspecified trauma to this major vessel.

Apply this code when a patient presents with a current condition or complication (e.g., chronic SVC syndrome, persistent thrombus, stricture) that is a direct consequence of a previous, unstated injury to the SVC. This is appropriate when the original injury event is no longer acute and the patient is being treated for the residual effects.

• Always look for more specific codes if the nature of the original SVC injury is known (e.g., laceration, puncture).
• This code requires a seventh character of 'S' for sequela, indicating a late effect.
• Code first the specific manifestation of the sequela (e.g., I82.220 for chronic SVC syndrome) if applicable, then this code as a secondary diagnosis.