Black eye, not otherwise specified

This code describes a periorbital hematoma, commonly known as a "black eye," which is a bruise around the eye resulting from trauma. It indicates extravasation of blood into the soft tissues surrounding the orbit, causing discoloration and swelling. This diagnosis is typically superficial and does not involve direct injury to the globe itself.

Use this code when documentation specifies a black eye or periorbital ecchymosis due to blunt trauma, without further detail regarding the specific nature or severity of the injury to the eye or surrounding structures. This code is appropriate when the physician's assessment confirms a simple bruise without fracture or internal ocular damage. Supporting documentation would include notes describing the appearance (e.g., ecchymosis, swelling) and mechanism of injury.

• Do not use this code if there is an associated orbital fracture, intraocular injury, or other specific ocular trauma; instead, code the more specific injury.
• Always code the external cause of injury (E-code) in addition to this diagnosis to provide a complete picture of the patient's encounter.
• If the black eye is a symptom of a more severe underlying condition (e.g., skull fracture), code the underlying condition as the primary diagnosis.