Injury of optic nerve, right eye, sequela

This code signifies a long-term effect or complication resulting from a previous injury to the optic nerve of the right eye. These sequelae can include persistent visual field defects, optic atrophy, or permanent vision loss directly attributable to the initial trauma. It indicates that the acute phase of the injury has passed, and the patient is now experiencing residual effects.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a current condition or disability of the right optic nerve that is a direct consequence of an old injury. This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters where the patient is being treated for or evaluated for the chronic effects of the past trauma. Documentation should specify the right eye and the sequela nature of the condition.

• Always sequence the sequela code first, followed by a code describing the specific residual condition (e.g., H47.21 for optic atrophy, right eye).
• Ensure the medical record explicitly states that the current optic nerve condition is a "sequela" or "due to old injury" of the right eye.
• Do not use this code for acute optic nerve injuries; those require codes from the acute injury section.