Struck by dolphin, sequela

This code indicates an injury sustained from being struck by a dolphin, with the "S" suffix denoting a sequela. A sequela is a condition that is the result of a previous disease or injury, meaning this code is used for complications or conditions arising from the initial dolphin strike, not the acute event itself.

This code is appropriate for documenting long-term effects or complications directly attributable to a past incident where a patient was struck by a dolphin. Examples include chronic pain, nerve damage, or persistent psychological trauma stemming from the original injury. It should be used when the initial injury has healed, but its lasting impact is being treated.

• Use this code only for conditions that are a direct consequence of the initial dolphin strike, not for the acute injury.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to the past dolphin strike.
• Always sequence this code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific sequela being treated (e.g., chronic pain, scar contracture).