Burn of third degree of lip(s), initial encounter

This diagnosis code signifies a severe burn affecting the lips, characterized by full-thickness tissue destruction. This type of burn involves damage to all layers of the skin, including nerves, and may extend into subcutaneous tissue. The affected area will appear charred, leathery, or waxy, and sensation may be absent.

Apply this code for patients presenting with a newly diagnosed third-degree burn to the lips. This is appropriate for the initial treatment of the burn injury, such as during emergency department visits, initial hospital admissions, or the first outpatient encounter for this specific burn.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "third degree" and "lip(s)" as the affected body part.
• Verify the encounter is the "initial encounter" for this specific burn injury; subsequent care would use a different encounter character.
• Always review the medical record for additional burn sites, as each distinct burn should be coded separately.