Unspecified balloon accident injuring occupant, sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication or residual effect stemming from an unspecified accident involving a balloon (e.g., hot air balloon, blimp) where the patient was an occupant. It indicates that the initial injury has resolved, but the patient continues to experience a related health problem. The specific nature of the balloon accident is not documented.

Apply this code when documenting a sequela (late effect) of a balloon accident where the patient was inside the balloon, and the details of the accident itself are not specified in the medical record. This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters addressing chronic conditions or permanent impairments directly resulting from the original, unspecified balloon incident.

• Always sequence the code for the specific sequela (e.g., scar, chronic pain, neurological deficit) first, followed by this external cause code.
• Ensure the "S" seventh character is used, indicating a sequela.
• Avoid using this code for initial encounters or active treatment of the acute injury; it is exclusively for late effects.