Minor laceration of right carotid artery, initial encounter

This code signifies a superficial tear or cut to the right carotid artery, indicating a less severe injury that does not involve a complete transection or significant vessel disruption. It describes the initial presentation and treatment of such an injury.

Apply this code when documentation specifies a "minor laceration," "superficial laceration," or "partial laceration" of the right carotid artery. This is appropriate for the patient's first encounter for this specific injury, whether for evaluation, diagnosis, or active treatment.

• Differentiate from a complete transection (S15.02-) or puncture (S15.00-) of the carotid artery.
• Ensure laterality (right) is clearly documented; if unspecified, an unspecified code would be used.
• The "A" seventh character indicates an initial encounter; subsequent encounters for follow-up or complications will require different seventh characters.