Contusion of descending [left] colon, sequela

This code signifies a bruise or injury to the descending portion of the left colon that occurred in the past and is now causing ongoing symptoms or complications. It indicates that the initial injury has resolved, but its lasting effects are still present and require medical attention.

This code is appropriate for documenting a patient presenting with chronic abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, or other persistent issues directly attributable to a previously sustained contusion of the left descending colon. It should be used when the acute injury has healed, but the patient continues to experience sequelae.

• Requires a seventh character "S" to indicate sequela, meaning the initial injury has passed the acute phase.
• Do not use for acute contusions; those would be coded with an "A" (initial encounter) or "D" (subsequent encounter).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current symptoms to the historical colon contusion.