Contus/lac l cereb w LOC >24 hr w/o ret consc w surv, init

This code signifies a severe traumatic brain injury involving bruising and tearing of the left cerebral hemisphere, resulting in a prolonged coma or vegetative state lasting over 24 hours. The patient has not regained their baseline level of consciousness, but has survived the initial injury.

Apply this code for patients presenting with a documented left cerebral contusion and laceration following trauma, where loss of consciousness exceeded 24 hours and the patient's neurological status remains significantly impaired compared to their pre-injury state. Documentation must clearly indicate the duration of unconsciousness and the lack of return to baseline.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "loss of consciousness greater than 24 hours" and "without return to pre-existing conscious level."
• This "A" seventh character indicates the initial encounter for active treatment of the injury.
• Differentiate from codes for contusion/laceration with shorter periods of unconsciousness or with full return to baseline.