Optic nerve injury

This code represents damage to the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the eye to the brain, resulting from trauma. This injury can range from contusion or compression to complete transection, potentially leading to partial or complete vision loss in the affected eye.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a traumatic injury to the optic nerve, such as from a direct blow to the orbit, penetrating injury, or severe head trauma. Supporting documentation should specify the nature of the injury and its traumatic origin.

• Differentiate from non-traumatic optic neuropathies, which are coded elsewhere.
• Always code the underlying cause of the trauma (e.g., fracture, open wound) first, if applicable.
• Ensure documentation specifies laterality if only one eye is affected.