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ICD-10 Coding for Abscess Back(L02.212)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Abscess Back. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Cutaneous Abscess of BackBoil on Back

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Abscess Back

L00-L08Primary Range

Infections of the skin and subcutaneous tissue

This range includes codes for various skin infections, including abscesses.

Bacterial and viral infectious agents

These codes identify the causative organism of infections, such as Staphylococcus aureus.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for abscess on back

Essential facts and insights about Abscess Back

The ICD-10 code for a cutaneous abscess on the back is L02.212, requiring detailed documentation of location and characteristics.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for abscess back

Cutaneous abscess of back
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of a fluctuant mass on the back

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed description of abscess location and characteristics

Applicable To

  • Boil on back
  • Furuncle of back

Excludes

  • Spinal epidural abscess (M46.20)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Physical examination showing fluctuant mass
  • Imaging confirming fluid collection

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of using unspecified codes when location is documented

Coding Notes

  • Ensure to document the exact location and size of the abscess for accurate coding.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Staphylococcus aureus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B95.6
Use when the abscess is confirmed to be caused by Staphylococcus aureus.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Spinal epidural abscess

M46.20
Presence of neurological deficits and MRI findings.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Abscess Back to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L02.212.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate treatment planning, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential underbilling for complex procedures

Mitigation Strategy

Use templates to ensure all details are captured, Educate staff on documentation standards

Impact

Reimbursement: Reduced reimbursement due to lack of specificity, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Decreased accuracy in health data reporting

Mitigation Strategy

Use L02.212 when the abscess is located on the back.

Impact

Frequent use of unspecified codes can trigger audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation supports specific code selection.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Abscess Back, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Abscess Back

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Abscess Back. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Emergency Department Visit for Abscess

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Physical examination findings
  • Procedure details
  • Follow-up care instructions

Example Documentation

Patient presents with a 3 cm erythematous, fluctuant mass on the mid-back. I&D performed with 10 mL purulent drainage, packed with iodoform gauze.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Drained abscess on back.
Good Documentation Example
I&D of 2.8 cm subcutaneous abscess at L1-L2 with 15 mL purulent material; wound packed, no drain placed.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the procedure and abscess characteristics, supporting accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Abscess Back? Ask your questions below.

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