Corrosion of third degree of left ear, subsequent encounter

This code signifies a severe, full-thickness tissue injury to the external left ear, excluding the eardrum, caused by corrosive substances. It indicates that the patient is receiving active treatment for the corrosion, such as wound care, debridement, or skin grafting, following the initial encounter. The damage extends through all layers of the skin and potentially deeper tissues.

Apply this code for follow-up encounters where a patient is being treated for a third-degree corrosive burn to their left outer ear. This is appropriate when the initial injury has already been assessed and documented, and the current visit focuses on ongoing management, healing, or complications of the severe corrosion.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies the left ear and excludes the eardrum.
• Verify the corrosion is indeed third-degree, indicating full-thickness tissue destruction.
• Confirm the encounter is for subsequent care, not the initial assessment of the injury.