Breakdown (mechanical) of permanent sutures, sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication arising from the mechanical failure of permanent surgical sutures. It indicates that a previously placed permanent suture has broken or otherwise failed due to mechanical stress, and the patient is now experiencing the lasting effects or consequences of this breakdown.

Use this code when documenting a patient presenting with ongoing issues directly attributable to a permanent suture that has mechanically failed at some point in the past. This applies to situations where the initial breakdown has occurred, and the patient is now being treated for the sequelae, rather than the acute event itself.

• Ensure documentation clearly states the suture was "permanent" and not absorbable.
• Confirm the current encounter addresses the sequela of the breakdown, not the acute breakdown itself.
• Always code the underlying condition or reason for the original surgery, if applicable and still relevant to the current encounter, in addition to this sequela code.