External constriction of unspecified forearm, sequela

This code describes a long-term or late effect resulting from external constriction of an unspecified forearm. This implies that the initial injury from the constriction has healed, but residual symptoms or complications persist. The nature of the original constricting force is not specified.

Use this code when documenting a sequela, such as chronic pain, nerve damage, circulatory issues, or functional impairment, that is directly attributable to a past external constriction injury of the forearm. This code is appropriate when the acute phase of the constriction injury has passed and the patient is presenting for treatment of these lasting effects.

• Always assign a sequela code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific sequela (e.g., chronic pain, nerve palsy).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a previous external constriction of the forearm.
• Avoid using this code for acute or current constriction injuries; those require codes from the initial encounter or subsequent encounter categories.