Crushing injury of left middle finger, initial encounter

This code signifies a severe, compressive injury to the middle digit of the left hand. It indicates damage to the finger's structures, such as bone, soft tissue, and neurovascular components, resulting from a significant crushing force. The "initial encounter" designation means this code is used for the first time a patient is seen for this specific injury.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a patient has sustained a crushing injury to their left middle finger, such as from being caught in machinery, a heavy object falling on it, or a door slamming on it. This code is appropriate for the initial assessment and treatment phase of the injury.

• Ensure the documentation specifies the left middle finger; laterality and digit are crucial.
• Verify that the injury mechanism is indeed a "crushing" force, not a laceration or fracture without crushing.
• Confirm this is the initial encounter for this specific injury; subsequent care would use a different encounter character.