Contusion of lung, bilateral, initial encounter

This code signifies a bruise or injury to both lungs, typically resulting from blunt force trauma. It indicates damage to the lung tissue itself, rather than an external chest wall injury, affecting both the left and right lungs.

This code is appropriate for patients presenting with a lung contusion affecting both lungs, often following motor vehicle accidents, falls, or direct blows to the chest. It should be used for the initial encounter when the patient is actively receiving treatment for the acute injury.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies bilateral lung involvement.
• Verify the encounter is indeed the initial encounter for this specific injury.
• Look for associated injuries, such as rib fractures or pneumothorax, and code them separately.