Intentional self-harm by blunt object, subsequent encounter

This code describes a patient presenting for follow-up care or complications related to a previous act of intentional self-harm using a blunt object. The initial injury has already been treated, and the current encounter addresses ongoing issues, healing, or sequelae.

Apply this code for subsequent visits where a patient is being monitored for healing of injuries sustained from self-inflicted blunt force trauma, or for treatment of complications such as infection, scarring, or psychological follow-up directly related to the original self-harm attempt. This includes encounters for wound checks, physical therapy for residual impairment, or mental health services addressing the aftermath of the event.

• Always sequence this external cause code after the primary diagnosis describing the nature of the injury (e.g., fracture, contusion).
• Ensure the "D" seventh character is appropriate for subsequent encounters, indicating active treatment or follow-up for the injury.
• Do not use this code for the initial treatment of the self-harm injury; a different seventh character would be required for that encounter.