What defines a "sequel" in ICD-10-CM?

A sequel in ICD-10-CM refers specifically to a condition that arises as a direct result of a previous disease or injury. This concept is important in medical coding because it allows healthcare providers and coders to accurately document and capture the full scope of a patient's medical history and complications arising from prior health events.

In the coding system, after a disease or injury has been resolved, any ongoing or subsequent complications that are directly linked to that initial event can be classified as sequels. This ensures that the medical records and data reflect the proper relationships between conditions, which can significantly affect treatment plans and insurance claims.

The other choices do not accurately capture the definition of a sequel. For instance, a newly acquired condition is not inherently related to previous health issues but rather stands on its own. Complications from a procedure can occur independently of prior diseases, and a pre-existing condition does not necessarily arise from something previous but instead indicates ongoing health issues that were present before current treatment or diagnosis. Thus, the definition of a sequel fits best with the idea of a condition that results from a prior event, which aids in understanding patient care continuity and management.