ICD-10 Coding for Abscess of Foot(L02.611, L02.612)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Abscess of Foot. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Abscess of Foot
L02.61-L02.619Primary Range
Cutaneous abscess of foot
This range includes specific codes for abscesses of the foot, differentiated by laterality.
Diabetes mellitus with skin complications
Used when the abscess is associated with diabetes-related skin complications.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| L02.611 | Cutaneous abscess of right foot | Use when an abscess is confirmed on the right foot without diabetic complications. |
|
| L02.612 | Cutaneous abscess of left foot | Use when an abscess is confirmed on the left foot without diabetic complications. |
|
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 foot abscess
Essential facts and insights about Abscess of Foot
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for abscess of foot
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of abscess on right foot confirmed by imaging
L02.612 - Cutaneous abscess of left foot
Use when an abscess is confirmed on the left foot without diabetic complications.
Applicable To
- Abscess of left foot
Excludes
- Diabetic foot ulcer (E10.621, E11.621)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging confirming abscess
- Clinical examination showing fluctuance and purulence
Coding Notes
Ensure laterality is documented clearly.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Abscess of Foot to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L02.611.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate representation of patient's condition., Regulatory: Potential for audit issues., Financial: Loss of appropriate reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Always assess and document diabetes status., Link diabetes to skin complications in notes.
Impact
Reimbursement: May result in denied claims or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Document and code the specific side of the foot affected.
Impact
Failure to document laterality can lead to audit flags.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement mandatory laterality fields in EMR templates.
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 Foot, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Abscess of Foot
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Abscess of Foot. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Diabetic foot abscess
Specialty: PodiatryRequired Elements
- Location and laterality
- Size and depth
- Diabetes status
- Culture results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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