Corrosion of third degree of upper back, sequela

This code signifies a third-degree chemical burn, also known as a corrosion, affecting the upper back region. Third-degree corrosions involve full-thickness damage to the skin, extending into subcutaneous tissue, and are characterized by a leathery, charred, or waxy appearance. The "sequela" designation indicates that this code is used for complications or conditions arising directly from the original corrosion, after the acute phase of the injury has passed.

Apply this code when documenting long-term effects or complications of a third-degree chemical burn to the upper back, such as scarring, contractures, chronic pain, or non-healing ulcers. This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters after the initial treatment of the acute burn. Do not use this code for the initial treatment of the acute burn itself.

• Always use an external cause code (V00-Y99) in conjunction with this code to describe the circumstances of the corrosion.
• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "upper back" and "third degree" to support code assignment.
• The "S" in the seventh character indicates sequela; do not use for active treatment of the initial injury.