Injury to brachial blood vessels

This code signifies traumatic damage to the blood vessels of the brachial region, encompassing arteries and veins in the upper arm. This injury can result in hemorrhage, thrombosis, or vessel occlusion, potentially compromising blood flow to the distal extremity.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a direct injury to the brachial artery or vein due to trauma, such as a fracture, dislocation, penetrating wound, or blunt force. Supporting documentation should specify the location of the vascular injury within the brachial region.

• Differentiate from injuries to blood vessels in the shoulder (e.g., subclavian) or forearm (e.g., radial/ulnar).
• Always code the underlying cause of the injury (e.g., fracture, open wound) in addition to the vascular injury.
• Specify whether the injury is to an artery or vein if documented, as more specific codes may be available in other code sets.