External constrict of part of breast, left breast, sequela

This code indicates a long-term consequence or complication resulting from an external constriction affecting the left breast. This could stem from a past injury, medical device, or other external force that caused a narrowing or compression of the breast tissue. The sequela implies that the initial constricting event is no longer present, but its lasting effects persist.

Use this code when documenting a chronic condition or residual effect on the left breast directly attributable to a prior external constriction. This would apply, for example, to a patient presenting with persistent pain, altered sensation, or tissue changes in the left breast years after a tight garment or medical device caused significant compression. It is appropriate when the original acute injury or cause of constriction has resolved, but its long-term impact remains.

• Always assign a sequela code when the acute phase of the injury or condition has passed, and the patient is receiving treatment for the residual effects.
• Do not use this code for acute or current external constriction; instead, use an acute injury code from the S20 category.
• Consider if an additional code is needed to specify the nature of the sequela (e.g., pain, scar tissue, nerve damage) if not inherently clear from the documentation.