Strain long flexor musc/fasc/tend thmb at wrs/hnd lv, subs

This code signifies a non-traumatic injury to the long flexor muscle, its surrounding fascia, or its tendon in an unspecified thumb, specifically located at the wrist or hand level. The injury is a strain, indicating overstretching or tearing of the muscle fibers or tendon. This particular code is used when the patient is receiving follow-up care for this specific injury after the initial treatment phase.

Apply this code when a patient presents for a subsequent visit (e.g., physical therapy, follow-up with an orthopedic specialist, re-evaluation) for a previously diagnosed strain of the long flexor of the thumb. This includes scenarios where the patient is recovering from the initial injury and is not in the acute phase of treatment.

• Ensure the documentation clearly specifies a "strain" and not a sprain, rupture, or other type of injury.
• Verify that the encounter is for follow-up care, not the initial treatment, as indicated by the "D" seventh character.
• Confirm the injury location is the thumb's long flexor at the wrist or hand level; avoid using for other thumb muscles or locations.