Contusion of gallbladder, sequela

This code indicates a bruise or injury to the gallbladder that occurred in the past and is now causing ongoing symptoms or complications. It signifies a long-term effect or residual condition resulting from a previous blunt force trauma to the gallbladder.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a contusion of the gallbladder as a historical event, and the patient is presenting with current issues directly attributable to that past injury. This is appropriate for follow-up visits addressing chronic pain, functional impairment, or other sequelae stemming from the original contusion.

• Ensure the medical record explicitly links current symptoms or conditions to a prior gallbladder contusion.
• This "S" seventh character indicates sequela, meaning the patient is seen for a complication or residual effect of the original injury.
• Do not use for acute or initial encounters for a gallbladder contusion; those require an "A" (initial encounter) or "D" (subsequent encounter) seventh character.