Struck by alligator, sequela

This code indicates a health condition or injury that is a residual effect or complication from a previous incident where the patient was struck by an alligator. It signifies that the alligator encounter is not the current acute event, but rather the underlying cause of the present sequela.

Use this code when documenting a chronic or long-term condition, scar, or functional impairment directly resulting from an alligator strike that occurred in the past. This applies when the patient is presenting for treatment of these lasting effects, not the initial acute injury.

• Always use this code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific sequela being treated.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a past alligator strike.
• Verify that the encounter is for the sequela, not an acute injury from a recent alligator strike (which would require an initial or subsequent encounter seventh character).