Burn of third degree of right ear, initial encounter

This diagnosis code indicates a full-thickness burn affecting the right ear, excluding the eardrum. A third-degree burn involves destruction of the epidermis and dermis, extending into subcutaneous tissue, and often presents with a leathery, charred, or waxy white appearance. Nerve endings are typically destroyed, resulting in little to no pain at the burn site itself.

Apply this code for patients presenting with a newly diagnosed, severe burn to any part of the right outer ear, such as the auricle or earlobe. This is appropriate for the initial treatment phase of such an injury, including emergency department visits or initial hospital admissions. It should be used when the burn depth is confirmed as third-degree.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies the right ear and confirms third-degree depth.
• Verify that the burn does not involve the eardrum; if it does, a different code would be necessary.
• The "A" seventh character signifies an initial encounter for active treatment of the burn.