Abrasion, unspecified lower leg, subsequent encounter

This code signifies a superficial injury to the lower leg, characterized by scraping or rubbing off of the skin, where the specific side (right or left) is not documented. The "D" seventh character indicates that this is a subsequent encounter, meaning the patient is receiving routine care during the healing phase of the abrasion.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care, such as wound checks, dressing changes, or medication refills, for an abrasion on an unspecified lower leg. This is appropriate when the initial treatment has already been rendered and the injury is not actively being treated for the first time.

• Ensure the medical record clearly indicates that this is a subsequent encounter for an abrasion, not an initial injury.
• If the laterality (right or left) of the lower leg is documented, a more specific code should be selected.
• Do not use this code for open wounds, lacerations, or more severe injuries; those require different code categories.