Contusion of chest wall

This code signifies a bruise or injury to the soft tissues of the chest wall, such as muscles, subcutaneous tissue, or ribs, without an open wound or fracture. It results from blunt force trauma, leading to localized pain, swelling, and discoloration. The integrity of the skin remains intact.

Apply this code for patients presenting with a closed injury to the chest wall, typically following a fall, direct impact, or motor vehicle accident, where imaging (if performed) rules out fractures or internal organ damage. Documentation should clearly state "contusion of chest wall" or similar terminology indicating blunt trauma without an open wound or fracture.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "contusion" and specifies the "chest wall" as the anatomical site.
• Do not use this code if an open wound (e.g., laceration, abrasion) or a rib fracture is present; more specific codes would apply.
• Sequence this code as a primary diagnosis when the contusion is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it's an associated injury.