Unsp injury of radial artery at forarm lv, left arm, init

This code signifies an unspecified injury to the radial artery in the left forearm. This could include a contusion, laceration, or other damage where the specific nature of the injury is not yet determined or documented. The "initial encounter" indicates that the patient is receiving active treatment for this new injury.

Use this code when a patient presents with a suspected or confirmed injury to the radial artery in the left forearm, and the medical record does not specify the exact type of injury (e.g., transection, puncture). This is appropriate for the initial visit when the injury is first being evaluated and treated.

• Ensure the documentation clearly indicates the left arm and forearm level for the radial artery injury.
• Only use this code for the initial encounter; subsequent encounters for the same injury will require a different seventh character.
• If a more specific injury (e.g., laceration, puncture) is documented, a more precise code from the S55.1 series should be selected.