Contusion of esophagus (thoracic part), sequela

This code signifies a long-term or late effect resulting from a bruise or blunt trauma to the thoracic portion of the esophagus. It indicates that the initial injury has resolved, but residual symptoms, complications, or anatomical changes persist.

This code is appropriate when documenting a patient presenting with ongoing issues directly attributable to a past esophageal contusion, such as strictures, dysphagia, or chronic pain, after the acute phase of the injury has passed. It should be used for follow-up encounters where the sequela is the primary reason for the visit.

• Always sequence this code after the code for the specific sequela (e.g., K22.2 for esophageal obstruction).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a previous esophageal contusion.
• Do not use this code for the initial acute injury; use the appropriate acute contusion code instead.