Assault by smoke, fire and flames, sequela

This code signifies the long-term or residual effects resulting from an assault involving smoke, fire, or flames. It is used to document conditions that manifest after the acute phase of the injury has passed, indicating a lasting consequence of the violent act. These sequelae can range from chronic respiratory issues to permanent scarring or psychological trauma.

Apply this code when a patient presents with a current condition that is directly attributed to an assault by smoke, fire, or flames that occurred in the past. This includes follow-up visits for burn scar contractures, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) due to smoke inhalation, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stemming from such an event. It should be used after the acute injury has healed or stabilized.

• Always sequence the code for the specific sequela (e.g., T20-T25 for burns, F43.10 for PTSD) first, followed by this external cause code.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a past assault by smoke, fire, or flames.
• The "S" in the 7th character indicates sequela and must always be used with this code.