Heat edema, sequela

This code signifies the long-term or residual effects of heat edema, a condition characterized by swelling, typically in the lower extremities, due to vasodilation and fluid leakage into interstitial spaces caused by heat exposure. It indicates that the patient is experiencing persistent symptoms or complications directly attributable to a past episode of heat-induced swelling.

This code is appropriate when a patient presents with chronic or lingering edema that has been definitively linked to a prior heat exposure event, even if the acute heat exposure itself is no longer present. It should be used for follow-up encounters where the sequelae of heat edema are being managed or evaluated.

• Always sequence this code after the code for the specific sequela being treated, if applicable.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current edema to a past heat exposure event.
• Do not use for acute heat edema; refer to codes in the T67.0-T67.6 range for acute presentations.