Gastric contents in esophagus causing other injury, sequela

This code signifies a long-term or late-effect complication arising from the presence of gastric contents in the esophagus, which previously caused an injury. This is not for the initial acute event, but rather for the persistent or residual problems that manifest after the initial damage has healed or stabilized.

Use this code when documenting a patient presenting with chronic esophageal strictures, Barrett's esophagus, or other lasting tissue damage directly attributable to a past episode of gastric content reflux or aspiration into the esophagus. This applies when the original injury has resolved, but its sequelae are now being treated or monitored.

• Requires a seventh character "S" for sequela, indicating a late effect.
• Always link to an external cause code if the original event was traumatic (e.g., accidental ingestion).
• Do not use for acute or current episodes of gastric content in the esophagus; those require acute injury codes.