Food in bronchus causing asphyxiation, sequela

This code signifies a long-term or residual effect resulting from a past episode of food aspiration into the bronchus that led to asphyxiation. It indicates that the patient is experiencing ongoing health issues directly attributable to that specific choking incident involving food.

This code is appropriate when documenting a patient's current condition that is a direct consequence of a prior event where food lodged in the bronchus caused asphyxia. Examples include chronic respiratory issues, persistent cough, or recurrent infections stemming from the initial aspiration and asphyxiation.

• Always assign this code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific sequela being treated.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to the past food aspiration and asphyxiation event.
• Do not use this code for the initial acute event; it is exclusively for the sequelae.