Contusion of left lesser toe(s) w damage to nail, init

This diagnosis code signifies a bruise to one or more of the left lesser toes, specifically indicating that the injury also involves damage to the nail structure. This damage could range from a subungual hematoma to a fractured nail plate.

This code is appropriate for the initial visit or active treatment phase of a patient presenting with a contusion to their left lesser toe(s) where the nail has also sustained injury. This often occurs due to direct trauma, such as stubbing the toe or dropping an object on it.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "left" lesser toe(s) and confirms nail involvement.
• Verify that this is the initial encounter for this specific injury to use the "A" seventh character.
• Distinguish from a simple toe contusion without nail damage; a different code would apply in that scenario.