Contusion of left index finger w/o damage to nail, sequela

This code signifies a bruise on the left index finger that occurred in the past and is now presenting with residual effects or complications. It specifically excludes any injury to the fingernail itself. The patient may be experiencing ongoing pain, stiffness, or other long-term sequelae from the original contusion.

Apply this code when documenting a follow-up encounter for a patient whose left index finger contusion, without nail damage, is no longer in the acute phase but is still causing symptoms or requiring ongoing management. This is appropriate for chronic pain, limited range of motion, or other persistent issues directly attributable to the prior injury.

• Always assign a seventh character of 'S' for sequela when the patient is seen for late effects of an injury.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current symptoms or condition to the previous left index finger contusion.
• Do not use this code for initial or subsequent encounters for an active, healing injury; those require 'A' or 'D' seventh characters, respectively.