Contusion of lip, initial encounter

This code signifies a bruise or blunt injury to the lip, resulting in damage to underlying tissues without a break in the skin. It typically presents with swelling, discoloration, and tenderness of the lip. This specific code is for the initial treatment or active phase of care for such an injury.

Apply this code when a patient presents with a lip contusion from a recent trauma, such as a fall, sports injury, or impact. Documentation should clearly state "contusion of lip" and indicate that this is the first time the patient is being seen for this particular injury.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "lip" and not a more general facial contusion.
• Verify the encounter is indeed the initial treatment; subsequent encounters would use a different seventh character.
• Distinguish from lacerations (open wounds) of the lip, which are coded differently.