Full-thickness skin loss [third degree NOS] of multiple specified sites

This code signifies a severe burn injury characterized by complete destruction of the epidermis and dermis, extending into subcutaneous tissue, affecting multiple distinct anatomical locations. It represents a full-thickness skin loss where the specific degree is not further specified beyond "third degree." This type of burn often results in nerve damage, appearing white, leathery, or charred.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a third-degree burn involving multiple specified body sites, and the provider has not documented a more specific burn degree (e.g., fourth degree). This code is appropriate for extensive full-thickness burns where the depth is confirmed as third-degree but not further elaborated. Documentation should explicitly state "third-degree burn" and list the affected multiple sites.

• Do not use this code if a more specific burn degree (e.g., fourth degree) is documented; instead, choose the appropriate code for that higher degree.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "multiple sites" to justify using this code, as single-site burns would be coded differently.
• Always sequence this burn code first, followed by codes for any associated complications (e.g., infection, inhalation injury) or external cause codes.