Contusion of heart with hemopericardium, initial encounter

This code signifies a bruise to the heart muscle that has resulted in bleeding into the pericardial sac, the fluid-filled membrane surrounding the heart. This condition is typically caused by blunt force trauma to the chest.

Apply this code for patients presenting with evidence of cardiac contusion and hemopericardium following a traumatic event, such as a motor vehicle accident or a fall. It is appropriate for the initial treatment and evaluation of this injury.

• Ensure documentation clearly states both cardiac contusion and hemopericardium.
• Verify that the encounter is indeed the "initial encounter" for this specific injury.
• Code additional injuries sustained during the same traumatic event separately.