Crushing injury of left index finger, initial encounter

This diagnosis code signifies a severe injury to the left index finger resulting from a compressive force, such as being caught between two objects. The injury involves significant tissue damage, potentially affecting bone, muscle, and neurovascular structures. This code is specifically for the initial phase of treatment.

Apply this code when documenting the initial presentation and treatment for a patient who has sustained a crushing injury to their left index finger. This includes emergency department visits, initial consultations, and the first surgical intervention for the injury.

• Ensure the documentation clearly specifies the left index finger and the nature of the injury as a "crushing" type.
• Verify that this is indeed the patient's first encounter for this specific injury; subsequent encounters will require a different seventh character.
• Look for associated injuries, such as fractures or open wounds, which may require additional codes.