Assault by other specified means, sequela

This code signifies a long-term or late-developing health condition resulting from a past assault where the means of harm were specific but not otherwise classified (e.g., assault by suffocation, drowning, or exposure to substances not elsewhere specified). It indicates that the initial injury or trauma has resolved, but its lasting effects are now being treated or evaluated.

Apply this code when documenting conditions such as chronic pain, psychological disorders (e.g., PTSD), or physical disabilities that are directly attributed to a past assault by specified but unusual means. This code is appropriate when the acute phase of the assault is over, and the patient is presenting for treatment of these residual effects.

• Always use this code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific sequela being treated.
• Ensure the medical record clearly links the current condition to a past assault by "other specified means."
• Do not use for acute assault injuries; those require codes from the T74 category for abuse or specific injury codes.