Laceration of urethra, sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication or residual effect stemming from a previous injury to the urethra that involved a tear or cut. These sequelae can manifest as strictures, fistulas, incontinence, or chronic pain, impacting urinary function and quality of life. The original laceration has healed, but its lasting consequences are now being addressed.

Apply this code when documenting conditions that are a direct result of a past urethral laceration, and the acute injury itself is no longer present. This includes follow-up visits for managing chronic urinary symptoms or structural abnormalities definitively linked to a prior urethral tear. Use it when the patient presents for treatment of the aftermath of the injury, not the initial injury itself.

• Always use in conjunction with an external cause code (V00-Y99) to describe the original injury, if known and relevant to the current encounter.
• Requires an additional code to specify the exact nature of the sequela (e.g., N35.9 for urethral stricture, unspecified).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a past urethral laceration, indicating it's not an acute event.