Hypothermia following anesthesia, sequela

This code signifies the long-term or residual effects of a patient experiencing an abnormally low body temperature as a consequence of receiving anesthesia. It indicates that the hypothermia itself has resolved, but its lasting impact on the patient's health is still being managed or evaluated.

Apply this code when documenting conditions that are a direct result of a previous episode of post-anesthesia hypothermia, even if the hypothermia is no longer present. This would include situations where the patient is being treated for complications that arose from the hypothermic event, such as nerve damage, cardiac issues, or prolonged recovery.

• This code is for sequelae, meaning the patient is no longer actively hypothermic but is experiencing residual effects.
• Always use in conjunction with a code describing the specific sequela (e.g., a code for neuropathy if nerve damage resulted).
• The "S" in the 7th character indicates sequela and should be used for encounters related to the long-term effects.