ICD-10 Coding for Buttock Abscess(L02.31, L02.32, L02.33)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Buttock Abscess. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Buttock Abscess
L02.31-L02.33Primary Range
Cutaneous abscess, furuncle, and carbuncle of buttock
This range covers the primary ICD-10 codes for abscesses located on the buttock, including furuncles and carbuncles.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus without complications
Used as an ancillary code when diabetes is present but not causative for the abscess.
Staphylococcus aureus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere
Used to specify the causative organism when Staphylococcus aureus is identified.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| L02.31 | Cutaneous abscess of buttock | Use when documentation specifies a cutaneous abscess on the buttock with laterality. |
|
| L02.32 | Furuncle of buttock | Use when documentation specifies a single boil or furuncle on the buttock. |
|
| L02.33 | Carbuncle of buttock | Use when documentation specifies multiple interconnected boils on the buttock. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for buttock abscess
Essential facts and insights about Buttock Abscess
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for abscess buttock
Decision Criteria
documentation Criteria
- Documentation must specify laterality and depth of the abscess.
clinical Criteria
- Clinical findings should support the presence of an abscess, such as fluctuance and erythema.
Applicable To
- Cutaneous abscess of right buttock
- Cutaneous abscess of left buttock
- Cutaneous abscess of bilateral buttocks
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Physical exam showing erythema and fluctuance
- Ultrasound confirming hypoechoic collection
- Positive culture for bacterial pathogen
Code-Specific Risks
- Omitting laterality can lead to claim denials.
- Confusing with pilonidal cysts or anal abscesses.
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is specified to avoid denials.
L02.32 - Furuncle of buttock
Use when documentation specifies a single boil or furuncle on the buttock.
Applicable To
- Boil on buttock
Excludes
- Carbuncle of buttock (L02.33)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Presence of a single boil with central pustule
- Culture positive for staphylococcal infection
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies 'furuncle' or 'boil' to differentiate from carbuncles.
L02.33 - Carbuncle of buttock
Use when documentation specifies multiple interconnected boils on the buttock.
Applicable To
- Cluster of boils on buttock
Excludes
- Furuncle of buttock (L02.32)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Presence of multiple interconnected boils
- Culture positive for staphylococcal infection
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies 'carbuncle' to differentiate from single boils.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Buttock Abscess to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L02.31.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate patient records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement mandatory fields for laterality in EHR templates., Educate staff on the importance of complete documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: Claims may be denied due to incomplete coding., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data entry affecting patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify laterality (right, left, bilateral) in documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim rejections., Compliance: Potential for audit findings due to incorrect coding., Data Quality: Misclassification of patient conditions.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies the exact location to differentiate.
Impact
Failure to specify laterality can lead to audit findings.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement checks in documentation workflows to ensure laterality is always recorded.
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 Buttock Abscess, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Buttock Abscess
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Buttock Abscess. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
ED presentation of buttock abscess
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Location and laterality of abscess
- Depth and size of abscess
- Procedure details if I&D performed
- Culture results if available
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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