Understanding sequelae? This resource provides information on sequela diagnosis, documentation, and medical coding for healthcare professionals. Learn about common sequelae, ICD-10 codes for sequelae of specific conditions, clinical documentation improvement for sequela, and the importance of accurate sequela reporting. Find resources for sequela management and long-term care planning related to sequelae of various diseases and injuries.
Also known as
Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences
Covers sequelae of injuries, poisoning, and external causes.
External causes of morbidity
Includes codes for external causes leading to sequelae.
Sequelae of infectious and parasitic diseases
Specific sequelae following infectious and parasitic diseases.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the condition a late effect (sequela)?
Yes
Is the cause known?
No
Do not code as a sequela. Code the current condition.
When to use each related code
Description |
---|
Sequela of a previous injury or disease |
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) |
Chronic pain syndrome |
Coding sequela without specifying the initial condition leads to inaccurate reporting and potential claim denials. Use a valid 7th character.
Confusing late effects with sequela can result in incorrect code assignment and affect quality data reporting. Clarify documentation.
Insufficient documentation of the cause-and-effect relationship between the original condition and the sequela can lead to audit issues and rejected claims.
Patient presents with sequelae of (specify original condition, e.g., cerebrovascular accident, traumatic brain injury, myocardial infarction). The current presenting symptoms include (document specific symptoms, e.g., residual hemiparesis, cognitive impairment, dysphagia, chronic pain). These symptoms are consistent with the documented history of (original condition) and represent a chronic, persistent condition resulting from the prior event. Onset of the original condition was (date of original condition). Current functional limitations include (list limitations, e.g., difficulty with activities of daily living, limitations in mobility, impaired communication). Assessment includes review of prior medical records, physical examination, and (list any additional diagnostic tests performed, e.g., neurocognitive testing, imaging studies). Diagnosis of sequelae of (original condition) is confirmed based on the patient's history, current symptoms, and functional limitations. The patient's condition is stable, but chronic. Plan of care includes (describe treatment plan, e.g., physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, pain management, medication management). Patient education provided regarding management of sequelae, including strategies for symptom control and maximizing functional independence. Follow-up scheduled in (duration) to monitor progress and adjust treatment plan as needed. ICD-10 code (appropriate code for the specific sequela) is applied for medical billing and coding purposes. Prognosis for significant improvement is (state prognosis, e.g., guarded, fair, good) based on the chronicity of the condition. Continued supportive care and symptom management are recommended.