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ICD-10 Coding for Abscess of Buttock(L02.31)

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

Also known as:

Buttock AbscessGluteal Abscess

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Abscess of Buttock

L02.31-L02.33Primary Range

Cutaneous abscess, furuncle, and carbuncle of buttock

This range includes codes for abscesses and related conditions specifically located on the buttock.

Abscess of anal and rectal regions

This range is relevant for differentiating perianal abscesses from buttock abscesses.

Pilonidal cyst with abscess

This code is used for abscesses near the natal cleft, differentiating from buttock abscesses.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for abscess of buttock

Essential facts and insights about Abscess of Buttock

The ICD-10 code for a cutaneous abscess of the buttock is L02.31, used for simple abscesses confined to the skin or subcutaneous tissue.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for abscess of buttock

Cutaneous abscess of buttock
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of a fluctuant, erythematous mass on the buttock

documentation Criteria

  • Documentation must specify 'buttock' and not 'perianal'

Applicable To

  • Simple cutaneous abscess of buttock

Excludes

  • Perianal abscess (K61.-)
  • Pilonidal cyst with abscess (L05.01)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Physical exam showing erythema, swelling, and purulent drainage on the buttock
  • Ultrasound confirming fluid collection

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusing with perianal abscess
  • Not specifying laterality

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the location as buttock and not perianal.

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 cultures confirm Staphylococcus aureus as the causative organism.

Differential Codes

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

Perianal abscess

K61.2
Use when the abscess is located near the anus, not on the buttock.

Pilonidal cyst with abscess

L05.01
Use for abscesses near the natal cleft.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Abscess of Buttock to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L02.31.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Include depth and complexity in documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use K61.2 for perianal abscesses.

Impact

Using L02.31 for perianal abscesses.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate providers on correct code usage.

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 of Buttock, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Abscess of Buttock

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

Simple I&D of buttock abscess

Specialty: General Surgery

Required Elements

  • Location of abscess
  • Size and characteristics
  • Procedure details

Example Documentation

Incision and drainage of 2 cm right buttock abscess under local anesthesia. Minimal irrigation, no drain.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Abscess drained.
Good Documentation Example
5 cm fluctuant, erythematous mass on left buttock with purulent drainage. Probing revealed loculations. Penrose drain placed.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the location, size, and complexity of the procedure.

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

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