Infct fol a proc, superfic incisional surgical site, subs

This code signifies a localized infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue at the site of a surgical incision, occurring during a subsequent encounter for care. It indicates that the infection is limited to the superficial layers and has developed after the initial surgical procedure.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a superficial incisional surgical site infection, such as cellulitis or abscess formation, that developed post-operatively. This would include scenarios where the patient is seen for wound care, antibiotic management, or drainage of the superficial infection.

• Always assign an additional code to identify the specific infectious organism, if known.
• Ensure the encounter is indeed "subsequent" and not the initial encounter for the infection.
• Distinguish from deep incisional or organ/space infections, which have different code assignments.