Struck by golf ball, sequela

This code indicates a health condition or injury that is a residual effect of having been struck by a golf ball. It is used when the initial injury has healed, but a lasting problem or complication remains due to that specific incident. This could include chronic pain, nerve damage, scarring, or impaired function directly attributable to the golf ball impact.

Apply this code when documenting a patient's current condition that is a direct, long-term consequence of being hit by a golf ball. This is appropriate for follow-up encounters where the sequela is being treated or monitored, rather than the acute injury itself. Use it in conjunction with a code describing the specific nature of the sequela (e.g., chronic pain, scar, vision impairment).

• Always use this external cause code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific sequela.
• Ensure the patient's medical record clearly links the current condition to the past golf ball injury.
• The "S" in the 7th character indicates sequela; do not use for initial or subsequent encounters for the acute injury.