Contusion of descending [left] colon, initial encounter

This code signifies a bruise or injury to the descending portion of the left colon, typically caused by blunt force trauma. It indicates damage to the colon wall without a full-thickness tear or perforation, resulting in localized bleeding and swelling within the tissue.

Apply this code for patients presenting with a documented contusion of the descending colon, often following abdominal trauma such such as a motor vehicle accident, fall, or direct blow to the abdomen. This code is appropriate for the initial treatment and evaluation of the injury.

• Ensure documentation specifies "descending colon" and "left" to support this specific code.
• Verify that the encounter is indeed the "initial encounter" for this injury. Subsequent care would require a different seventh character.
• Look for terms like "bruise," "hematoma," or "ecchymosis" of the colon wall in the operative report or imaging findings.