Superficial frostbite of unspecified wrist, sequela

This code indicates a past episode of superficial frostbite affecting an unspecified wrist, with residual effects or complications still present. Superficial frostbite involves freezing of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, but not deeper structures. The "sequela" designation means the acute injury has resolved, but the patient is experiencing long-term consequences directly attributable to the frostbite.

Use this code when a patient presents with a chronic condition or complication (e.g., persistent numbness, hypersensitivity, altered sensation, or skin changes) that is a direct result of a previously sustained superficial frostbite injury to an unspecified wrist. This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters addressing these lingering effects, not the initial acute injury.

• Always use an external cause code (V00-Y99) in conjunction with this code to describe the circumstances of the frostbite.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current complaint to the prior frostbite injury and specifies "sequela."
• If the specific wrist (right or left) is documented, use the more precise code (T33.511S or T33.512S).