Burn of third degree of unspecified ear, initial encounter

This code signifies a severe burn injury affecting the ear, excluding the eardrum, where all layers of skin and underlying tissue are destroyed. Such burns typically present with a leathery, charred appearance and are often painless due to nerve damage.

Apply this code for initial encounters when documenting a full-thickness burn to any part of the external ear (auricle) or ear canal, but not the tympanic membrane. This is appropriate for the first time the patient is seen for this specific burn.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "third degree" and the affected body part is the ear, excluding the eardrum.
• Confirm this is the initial treatment encounter for this burn; subsequent encounters will require a different seventh character.
• Always look for additional codes to describe the cause of the burn (external cause code) and any associated complications.