Strain of intrns musc/fasc/tend finger at wrs/hnd lv, subs

This code signifies a non-traumatic injury to the small muscles, connective tissue, or tendons located within a finger other than the thumb, at the wrist or hand level. It specifically indicates a muscle or tendon fiber tear or overstretching, resulting in pain, swelling, and impaired function. This particular code is used when the patient is receiving follow-up care for the initial injury.

Apply this code for subsequent encounters when a patient presents for ongoing treatment, such as physical therapy, follow-up appointments with a specialist, or medication refills, for a previously diagnosed strain of an intrinsic muscle, fascia, or tendon of a finger (excluding the thumb). This includes scenarios where the patient is recovering from the initial injury and is not in the acute phase of treatment.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies the affected finger is not the thumb.
• Verify the encounter is for follow-up care, not the initial treatment or a new injury.
• Look for terms like "healing," "recovering," or "follow-up" in the clinical notes to confirm subsequent encounter status.