Burn of esophagus, sequela

This code signifies the long-term or late effects resulting from a burn injury to the esophagus. These sequelae can include strictures, scarring, dysphagia, or other chronic complications that manifest after the acute phase of the burn has resolved. It indicates that the original burn event is no longer active, but its lasting impact is being addressed.

Use this code when documenting and billing for treatment of conditions directly attributable to a past esophageal burn. This applies to patients presenting with chronic dysphagia due to an esophageal stricture from a previous caustic ingestion, or ongoing pain and inflammation from scar tissue. It should be used when the current encounter is for managing these persistent issues, not the initial burn.

• Always use this code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific sequela (e.g., K22.2 for esophageal obstruction).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a previous esophageal burn.
• The "S" in the seventh character indicates sequela and is mandatory for this code.