Minor laceration of inferior mesenteric artery, sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication or late effect resulting from a previously sustained minor tear or cut in the inferior mesenteric artery. This injury, though minor, has led to ongoing issues or conditions that are now being addressed.

This code is appropriate when documenting a patient presenting for treatment of a condition directly attributable to a past minor laceration of the inferior mesenteric artery. Examples include chronic pain, stricture, or other vascular compromise that developed as a consequence of the original injury, after the acute phase has passed.

• Always sequence this "S" code after the code describing the specific sequela (e.g., chronic pain, stricture) it is causing.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to the previous minor inferior mesenteric artery laceration.
• Do not use this code for the initial acute injury or for subsequent encounters during the active healing phase.