Air embolism (traumatic), sequela

This code signifies the long-term or residual effects resulting from a traumatic air embolism. An air embolism occurs when air bubbles enter the bloodstream, which can lead to various complications depending on where the air travels (e.g., heart, brain, lungs). The "sequela" aspect indicates that the acute event has passed, but the patient continues to experience related health issues.

Use this code when documenting conditions such as chronic neurological deficits (e.g., paralysis, cognitive impairment) or persistent organ damage that are directly attributable to a past traumatic air embolism. This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters where the patient is being treated for these lasting complications, not the initial acute event.

• Always sequence this code after the code for the specific sequela (e.g., hemiplegia, anoxic brain damage).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a previously sustained traumatic air embolism.
• Do not use this code for the acute phase of an air embolism; instead, use the appropriate acute air embolism code.