Foreign body in nostril, sequela

This code signifies the long-term or late effects resulting from a foreign body having been lodged in the nostril. It is used when the initial injury has healed, but residual problems or complications persist due to the past presence of the foreign object. Examples include chronic inflammation, structural damage, or persistent symptoms.

Apply this code when documenting conditions like nasal polyps, synechiae, chronic sinusitis, or septal perforation that are directly attributed to a foreign body that was previously removed from the nostril. This code is appropriate when the patient presents for treatment of these lasting effects, not for the initial removal of the foreign body itself.

• Always use this code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific sequela (e.g., chronic sinusitis).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a past foreign body in the nostril.
• The "S" seventh character indicates sequela and is mandatory for this code.