Burn of second degree of unspecified wrist, sequela

This code signifies a second-degree burn affecting an unspecified wrist, indicating damage to the epidermis and dermis, characterized by blistering and pain. The "S" seventh character denotes that this encounter is for the sequela (late effects) of the original burn injury, meaning the patient is being treated for complications or residual conditions arising from the healed burn.

Apply this code when a patient presents for treatment of a long-term complication, scar revision, or chronic pain directly attributable to a previously sustained second-degree burn of the wrist. This would be used after the initial healing phase of the burn has concluded. Do not use this code for the initial treatment of an acute burn.

• Always ensure the documentation clearly states the encounter is for a sequela of the burn, not an active injury.
• Verify that the burn was indeed second-degree and located on the wrist.
• Consider additional codes for specific sequelae, such as hypertrophic scarring (L91.0) or contracture (M24.57-).