Open bite of left shoulder, subsequent encounter

This code describes an open wound on the left shoulder caused by a bite, indicating that the patient is receiving follow-up care for this injury. An open bite implies a break in the skin, potentially involving deeper tissues, resulting from an animal or human bite.

Use this code when a patient presents for ongoing treatment, such as wound care, dressing changes, or monitoring for infection, related to an open bite wound on their left shoulder. This applies after the initial encounter for the injury has already been coded.

• Ensure documentation specifies "left shoulder" and "open bite" for accurate code assignment.
• The "D" seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter, meaning the patient is in the healing phase.
• Always code any associated infections or complications separately.