Contusion of multiple sites of lower limb

This code signifies bruising or ecchymosis affecting more than one distinct anatomical area within the lower extremity. It indicates blunt force trauma to the lower limb resulting in subcutaneous bleeding without an open wound. The injury involves multiple, separate contused sites rather than a single, extensive contusion.

Use this code when documentation clearly specifies contusions in several different locations on the lower limb, such as the thigh and calf, or knee and ankle. This code is appropriate when the physician's notes describe multiple, distinct areas of bruising on the lower extremity following an injury. Supporting documentation should detail the specific sites of contusion.

• Do not use for a single, large contusion spanning multiple areas; use a more specific code for the primary site.
• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "multiple sites" or lists at least two distinct lower limb areas with contusions.
• Consider an external cause code (E-code) to describe the circumstances of the injury, if known.