Diffuse TBI w LOC >24 hr w/o ret consc w surv, init

This code signifies a severe, widespread brain injury caused by trauma, resulting in a prolonged coma exceeding 24 hours. The patient's consciousness level does not recover to their baseline state prior to the injury, but they do survive the initial hospitalization. This indicates significant neurological impairment following the traumatic event.

Apply this code for patients who have sustained a diffuse traumatic brain injury, experienced a loss of consciousness lasting more than 24 hours, and have not returned to their pre-injury conscious level upon discharge from the initial acute care setting. Documentation must clearly state the duration of unconsciousness and the patient's neurological status relative to their baseline.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "diffuse" TBI and "loss of consciousness greater than 24 hours."
• Verify that the patient survived the initial encounter; this code is not for fatal outcomes.
• Distinguish from codes for TBI with shorter durations of unconsciousness or full return to baseline.