Corrosion of second degree of unspecified ear, sequela

This code signifies a second-degree corrosive injury to an unspecified part of the ear, excluding the eardrum. It indicates a more severe chemical burn than a first-degree injury, characterized by blistering and partial-thickness skin damage, and is being reported as a late effect or complication of the initial injury.

Apply this code when documenting a patient presenting with a chronic or residual condition resulting from a past second-degree corrosive burn to the external or middle ear (excluding the tympanic membrane). This would be used after the acute phase of the injury has passed, for example, when managing scar tissue or persistent pain related to the original burn.

• Always use this code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific sequela being treated (e.g., scar, pain).
• Ensure the medical record clearly documents a prior second-degree corrosive injury to the ear and the current condition is a direct result of that past event.
• Verify that the ear drum was not involved, as specific codes exist for tympanic membrane injuries.