Sprain of interphalangeal joint of left little finger, init

This diagnosis indicates a ligamentous injury to the interphalangeal joint of the left little finger. It signifies a stretch or tear of the connective tissues supporting the joint, without a complete dislocation or fracture. The injury results in pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected digit.

This code is appropriate for patients presenting with a new injury to the interphalangeal joint of their left little finger, such as from a hyperextension or jamming incident. It should be used for the initial evaluation and treatment of the sprain. Subsequent encounters for the same injury would require a different seventh character.

• Ensure documentation specifies the left little finger and the interphalangeal joint.
• Confirm the encounter is the initial one for this specific injury to use the "A" seventh character.
• Distinguish from dislocations or fractures, which have separate and more specific codes.