Laceration of brachial artery, left side, initial encounter

This code signifies a traumatic tear or cut in the brachial artery located in the left arm. This injury typically results in significant bleeding and can compromise blood flow to the distal limb, potentially leading to ischemia.

Apply this code for the initial treatment of a patient presenting with a confirmed laceration of the left brachial artery due to trauma. This includes situations such as penetrating injuries (e.g., stab wounds, gunshot wounds) or severe blunt trauma causing arterial disruption.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "laceration" of the artery, not just a contusion or minor injury.
• Verify the laterality is explicitly documented as "left" to support this specific code.
• Confirm this is the patient's first encounter for this particular injury to justify the "A" initial encounter character.