Sprain of lateral collateral ligament of right knee, sequela

This code signifies a chronic or late-effect injury to the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) of the right knee, specifically a sprain. It indicates that the initial LCL sprain has resulted in ongoing problems, residual symptoms, or complications that are being addressed at the current encounter.

Apply this code when a patient presents with persistent pain, instability, limited range of motion, or other long-term issues directly attributable to a previously sustained sprain of the right knee's LCL. This is appropriate for follow-up care, rehabilitation, or management of chronic symptoms after the initial acute injury has resolved.

• Always link this sequela code with an external cause code (e.g., W00-Y38) if the original injury's cause is still relevant for reporting.
• Ensure documentation clearly states the chronic nature or late effect of the LCL sprain, distinguishing it from an acute injury.
• Do not use this code for an initial or acute LCL sprain; instead, use the appropriate acute injury code.