Burn of third degree of left hand, unspecified site, sequela

This code signifies a third-degree burn affecting the left hand, where the specific location on the hand (e.g., palm, dorsum, finger) is not documented. A third-degree burn involves full-thickness skin destruction, extending through the epidermis and dermis, often into subcutaneous tissue, and is characterized by a dry, leathery appearance and lack of sensation.

Use this code when documenting a patient presenting with a long-term complication or residual condition directly resulting from a third-degree burn to their left hand, and the original burn site on the hand was not specified. This code is appropriate for conditions such as scarring, contractures, chronic pain, or functional impairment that are a direct consequence of the past burn injury.

• Always assign an external cause code (V00-Y99) to describe the circumstances of the original burn injury, if known.
• This "S" code indicates a sequela, meaning it should be used for conditions that are the late effects or complications of a previous burn.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to the prior third-degree burn of the left hand.