External constriction of left ear, sequela

This code signifies a lasting effect or complication resulting from an external constriction injury to the left ear. This could include chronic pain, deformity, impaired hearing, or other persistent issues directly attributable to the original constrictive trauma. The "sequela" indicates that the acute injury has resolved, but its long-term consequences remain.

Use this code when documenting a patient presenting with a current, chronic condition of the left ear that is a direct result of a past external constriction injury. Documentation should clearly state the causal link between the previous injury and the current sequela, and indicate that the acute phase of the original injury has passed. This code is appropriate for follow-up visits addressing these long-term complications.

• Always sequence the sequela code first, followed by any additional codes describing the specific nature of the sequela (e.g., chronic pain, hearing loss).
• Ensure documentation explicitly states "sequela" or "due to previous external constriction" to support code assignment.
• Do not use this code for acute external constriction injuries; those require acute injury codes.