Congenital perforated nasal septum

This code describes a birth defect where there is an abnormal opening or hole in the wall (septum) that divides the nasal passages. This congenital anomaly means the perforation was present at birth, rather than developing later in life due to trauma, infection, or other acquired conditions.

Use this code for patients diagnosed with a nasal septal perforation that is explicitly documented as congenital in origin. Documentation should clearly state "congenital perforated nasal septum" or similar phrasing indicating its presence from birth. This code is appropriate for initial diagnosis and subsequent encounters related to this specific congenital defect.

• Differentiate carefully between congenital and acquired nasal septal perforations; acquired perforations are coded elsewhere (e.g., J34.89).
• Ensure physician documentation explicitly states "congenital" to support the use of this code.
• Do not use this code for a deviated nasal septum without perforation.