Sprain of interphalangeal joint of l little finger, sequela

This code signifies a chronic or late-effect condition resulting from a previous sprain of the interphalangeal joint of the left little finger. It indicates that the initial injury has resolved, but the patient is now experiencing residual symptoms or complications directly attributable to that past sprain.

Apply this code when documenting a patient presenting with persistent pain, stiffness, instability, or deformity in the left little finger's interphalangeal joint, and the medical record clearly links these issues to a previously sustained sprain. This is appropriate for follow-up encounters addressing long-term consequences, not the initial acute injury.

• Always sequence this code after the code for the specific sequela being treated (e.g., chronic pain, osteoarthritis).
• Ensure documentation explicitly states the current condition is a "sequela," "late effect," or "due to old injury" of a left little finger interphalangeal joint sprain.
• Do not use for acute or subacute sprains; those require codes from the initial encounter or subsequent encounter categories.