Contusion of unsp index finger with damage to nail, sequela

This code describes a past injury to an unspecified index finger, specifically a bruise that also involved damage to the fingernail or nail bed. The "sequela" designation indicates that this code is used for conditions that are residual effects or complications of the initial injury, after the acute phase has passed.

This code is appropriate when a patient presents with a long-term complication or residual symptom directly attributable to a contusion of an unspecified index finger that also damaged the nail. Examples include nail deformity, chronic pain, or scar tissue resulting from the original injury. It should be used when the initial acute injury has healed, but its lasting effects are being treated or evaluated.

• Always ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a previous contusion of the index finger with nail involvement.
• Do not use this code for the initial acute injury; instead, use the appropriate acute contusion code.
• Specify the laterality (right or left) if known, as this code is for an "unspecified" index finger.