Contusion of eyeball

This code represents a bruise or injury to the globe of the eye resulting from direct trauma, without rupture of the eyeball. It indicates damage to the ocular tissues, such as the conjunctiva, sclera, or cornea, due to blunt force. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, subconjunctival hemorrhage, or blurred vision.

Assign this code when documentation specifies a contusion of the eyeball due to an external force, such as a blow, impact, or foreign body striking the eye. This diagnosis is appropriate when there is no evidence of a penetrating injury, laceration, or rupture of the globe. Supporting documentation should clearly state "contusion of eyeball" or similar terminology indicating blunt trauma to the eye.

• Differentiate from open wounds or lacerations of the eyeball, which involve a break in the integrity of the globe.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "eyeball" to distinguish from contusions of the periocular region (e.g., eyelid, orbit).
• Sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter; otherwise, it may be a secondary diagnosis.