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  2. ICD-10-CM Codes List
  3. V01–Y99
  4. Y21-Y33
  5. Other specified events, undetermined intent (Y33)

Other specified events, undetermined intent (Y33)

The ICD-10 code Y33 covers "Other specified events, undetermined intent," used when the cause behind an injury or event cannot be clearly identified as accidental, intentional, or self-inflicted. This category includes specific circumstances like hanging, strangulation, or suffocation when the exact intent is unknown.

This section includes several detailed codes to specify the timing of medical encounters: Y33.XXXA for an initial encounter, Y33.XXXD for a subsequent encounter, and Y33.XXXS for sequela, meaning complications or conditions resulting from the initial event. These codes help coders report cases such as hanging, strangulation, or suffocation of unknown intent, also described as "events of undetermined intent" or "exposure to potentially harmful entity, undetermined intent." Using these codes accurately supports clear documentation when the exact circumstances of harm are unclear, guiding both clinical assessment and billing related to these unusual or ambiguous cases.

Instructional Notations

7th Character Note

Certain ICD-10-CM categories have applicable 7th characters. The applicable 7th character is required for all codes within the category, or as the notes in the Tabular List instruct. The 7th character must always be the 7th character in the data field. If a code that requires a 7th character is not 6 characters, a placeholder X must be used to fill in the empty characters.

  • The appropriate 7th character is to be added to code Y33

7th Character

Indicates that a seventh character is to be assigned to codes in a subcategory.

  • A - initial encounter
  • D - subsequent encounter
  • S - sequela