Injury to facial nerve

This code signifies a traumatic injury affecting the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII), which controls facial expressions, taste sensation, and some glandular functions. Such injuries can result in facial paralysis, weakness, or sensory disturbances.

Apply this code for documented cases of direct trauma to the facial nerve, such as lacerations, fractures involving the temporal bone, or crush injuries. Documentation should clearly indicate the nerve's involvement and the traumatic etiology.

• Differentiate from non-traumatic facial nerve disorders like Bell's palsy (351.0) or other neuropathies.
• Always code the underlying cause of the injury (e.g., fracture, open wound) first, followed by this code as a secondary diagnosis.
• Ensure documentation specifies "injury" or "trauma" to the facial nerve, not just symptoms like facial weakness.