Self-harm by exposure to extremes of cold, sequela

This code signifies a long-term consequence or complication arising from a past act of intentional self-harm where the individual exposed themselves to extreme cold. These sequelae could include chronic pain from frostbite, permanent tissue damage, nerve damage, or other lasting physical impairments directly attributable to the original self-injurious act. It reflects the residual effects rather than the acute event itself.

Use this code when documenting a patient presenting with a current condition that is a direct, lasting result of a previous intentional self-harm event involving exposure to extreme cold. This applies to follow-up visits for chronic issues stemming from the original injury, such as ongoing management of frostbite-related neuropathy or surgical correction of deformities caused by the cold exposure. It should be used after the acute phase of the injury has passed.

• Always sequence this sequela code after the code for the specific residual condition (e.g., chronic pain, nerve damage).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to the past intentional self-harm by cold exposure.
• Do not use this code for the initial acute injury; use the appropriate acute intentional self-harm code for that encounter.