Complete lesion of L3 level of lumbar spinal cord, sequela

This code signifies a complete transection or severe damage to the L3 level of the lumbar spinal cord, resulting in a permanent loss of motor and sensory function below this level. It indicates that the acute injury has resolved, and the patient is now experiencing the long-term effects or complications of this spinal cord damage.

Use this code for patients presenting with chronic neurological deficits directly attributable to a complete spinal cord injury at the L3 level. This applies when the initial injury occurred in the past and the current encounter is for managing the ongoing sequelae, such as paraplegia, neurogenic bladder, or chronic pain. It should not be used for the initial acute injury.

• Always ensure documentation clearly states "complete lesion" and specifies the L3 level.
• The "S" seventh character indicates sequela, meaning the code is for the late effects of the injury.
• Code additional conditions, such as neurogenic bladder or pressure ulcers, separately to fully describe the patient's clinical picture.