Burn of third degree of right knee, initial encounter

This code signifies a full-thickness burn affecting the right knee. A third-degree burn involves destruction of the epidermis and dermis, extending into subcutaneous tissue, and often presents with a dry, leathery appearance and absent sensation.

Apply this code for the initial treatment of a patient presenting with a third-degree burn specifically located on their right knee. This includes emergency department visits, initial hospital admissions, or the first encounter for this specific injury in an outpatient setting.

• Ensure the documentation clearly specifies "third degree" and the exact location as the "right knee."
• Verify this is the initial encounter for treatment of this burn; subsequent care would require a different seventh character.
• Always code the extent of the burn (T31.-) and the external cause (V00-Y99) in addition to the burn site code.