Burn of third degree of left lower leg, initial encounter

This code signifies a severe burn injury affecting the left lower leg, characterized by full-thickness tissue destruction. This type of burn extends through all layers of the skin, often damaging underlying fat, muscle, or bone, and typically presents with a dry, leathery, or waxy appearance.

Apply this code when documenting the initial treatment for a patient presenting with a third-degree burn to the left lower leg. This includes emergency department visits, initial hospital admissions, or the first encounter with a healthcare provider for this specific injury.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "third degree" and the exact anatomical location as the "left lower leg."
• Verify this is the patient's first encounter for this burn; subsequent care would require a different encounter character.
• Always code the extent of the burn (e.g., T31.xx) in addition to the specific site code.