Contusion of multiple sites, not elsewhere classified

This code signifies a bruise or contusion affecting multiple, distinct anatomical locations on the body. It indicates blunt force trauma resulting in subcutaneous hemorrhage and tissue damage across various sites, without a more specific code available for the combination of affected areas.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates contusions in several different body regions, and no single, more specific ICD-9-CM code adequately captures all affected sites. This is often seen in cases of widespread trauma, such as falls, motor vehicle accidents, or assaults, where multiple areas sustain bruising.

• Ensure documentation specifies multiple sites of contusion; if only one site is bruised, a more specific code for that single site should be used.
• Avoid using this code if a more specific combination code exists for the documented multiple sites (e.g., contusion of head and neck).
• Always sequence this code after any acute injuries or open wounds that may be present, as contusions are often secondary to more severe trauma.