Contusion of nose, initial encounter

This code signifies a bruise or ecchymosis of the nasal structures, resulting from direct trauma. It indicates damage to the soft tissues and underlying blood vessels of the nose without a fracture or open wound. This diagnosis is typically associated with pain, swelling, and discoloration of the nasal area.

Apply this code for patients presenting with a closed injury to the nose, characterized by localized tenderness, swelling, and/or ecchymosis, following an acute traumatic event. Documentation should clearly state "contusion of nose" or "nasal bruise" and specify that this is the initial encounter for treatment of this injury.

• Differentiate from nasal fracture (S02.2XXA) or open wound of nose (S01.2XXA); this code is for closed soft tissue injury only.
• Ensure documentation specifies "initial encounter" for the acute phase of treatment. Subsequent encounters for follow-up care would use the appropriate subsequent encounter extension.
• Do not use for epistaxis (R04.0) unless specifically documented as secondary to a nasal contusion.