In simple words: This code is for a burn on the lower leg (not including the ankle or foot).The doctor doesn't know how severe the burn is or exactly where on the leg it is.

This code classifies burns of unspecified degree (first, second, or third-degree) affecting an unspecified site on the lower limb, excluding the ankle and foot.The burn may be caused by thermal sources (flame, hot objects, etc.) or chemical agents.Additional codes may be needed to specify the degree of the burn, the extent of body surface area involved, and the external cause of the injury.A seventh character is required to indicate the encounter (A for initial encounter, D for subsequent encounter, or S for sequela).

Example 1: A patient presents to the emergency department with a burn of unknown severity on their lower leg after an accident involving a hot stove.The physician assesses the burn and determines it requires cleaning and dressing changes., A patient is admitted to the hospital with a second-degree burn on their calf sustained in a house fire.The physician codes the injury and performs debridement and skin grafting., A patient receives outpatient treatment for a minor, superficial burn on the thigh after accidentally touching a hot iron. The physician assesses the burn, applies a topical ointment, and provides wound care instructions.

Complete documentation should include the location, size, depth (degree), and mechanism of the burn.Include details of any treatment rendered, including dressings, medications, and surgical procedures. Photographic documentation may be helpful in assessing the burn's extent.

** The seventh character (A, D, or S) is mandatory and indicates the encounter status.