Burn of third degree of back of unspecified hand, sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication or late effect resulting from a full-thickness burn that affected the back of an unspecified hand. A third-degree burn involves destruction of the epidermis, dermis, and often underlying subcutaneous tissue, leading to scarring, contractures, or other persistent issues after the initial burn has healed.

Apply this code when documenting a patient presenting with a current condition or problem that is a direct consequence of a previously sustained third-degree burn to the back of the hand. This includes scenarios such as chronic pain, scar contracture limiting hand function, or nerve damage attributed to the original burn injury, after the acute phase of healing has passed.

• Always use an additional code to identify the specific nature of the sequela (e.g., scar, contracture, chronic pain).
• Ensure the medical record clearly links the current condition to the past third-degree burn of the hand.
• This "S" code indicates a sequela and should be used for complications or conditions that arise as a direct result of a previous injury, not for the initial burn treatment.