Minor laceration of tail of pancreas, initial encounter

This code signifies a superficial tear or cut to the tail (leftmost portion) of the pancreas, without significant tissue loss or deep penetration. It indicates a less severe injury compared to a major laceration or transection of the pancreatic tissue.

Apply this code for patients presenting with a documented minor laceration of the pancreatic tail, often identified during imaging studies following blunt or penetrating abdominal trauma. This code is appropriate for the initial treatment and evaluation of such an injury.

• Ensure documentation specifies "minor laceration" and "tail of pancreas."
• Verify this is the "initial encounter" for the injury; subsequent encounters will require a different seventh character.
• Always code with an external cause code to fully describe the circumstances of the injury.