Abrasion of left ear, initial encounter

This code signifies a superficial injury to the outer ear on the left side, characterized by scraping or rubbing off the skin's surface. It indicates that the patient is receiving initial active treatment for this specific ear abrasion.

Apply this code for a patient presenting with a new abrasion to their left ear, such as from a fall, contact with a rough surface, or a minor sports injury. Documentation should clearly state "abrasion" of the left ear and indicate that this is the first time the patient is being seen for this particular injury.

• Ensure laterality is correctly identified as "left ear."
• Verify the encounter type is "initial" for active treatment; subsequent encounters will require a different seventh character.
• Distinguish from contusions or lacerations of the ear, which have separate codes.