Contact with other heat and hot substances, sequela

This code describes the long-term effects or complications arising from an injury caused by contact with various heat sources or hot substances, excluding fire. These sequelae can manifest as chronic pain, scarring, contractures, or functional limitations that persist after the initial burn injury has healed.

Use this code when documenting conditions that are a direct result of a past burn injury from heat or hot substances, and the acute phase of the injury has resolved. Examples include chronic pain from a scald burn, keloid scarring from contact with a hot object, or limited range of motion due to a contracture from a past heat-related injury.

• Always assign this code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific sequela (e.g., L90.5 for scar conditions).
• Ensure the medical record clearly links the current condition to a previous injury involving heat or hot substances.
• This code is for sequelae only; do not use it for acute burn injuries.