Contusion of left ear, subsequent encounter

This code signifies a bruise or blunt trauma to the left ear, indicating damage to the underlying soft tissues without a break in the skin. It specifically applies to an encounter following the initial treatment of the injury, where the patient is receiving follow-up care for the contusion.

Use this code when a patient presents for follow-up care, such as wound checks, medication adjustments, or monitoring healing progress, for a previously diagnosed contusion of the left ear. Documentation should clearly state "left ear contusion" and indicate that this is not the initial encounter for the injury.

• Ensure documentation specifies "left ear" to differentiate from right or unspecified ear contusions.
• The "D" seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter; use "A" for initial encounters and "S" for sequela.
• Confirm the injury is a contusion and not an open wound, hematoma, or fracture, which would require different codes.