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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:

Foot AbscessCutaneous Abscess of Foot

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

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
L02.611Cutaneous abscess of right footUse when an abscess is confirmed on the right foot without diabetic complications.
  • Imaging confirming abscess
  • Clinical examination showing fluctuance and purulence
L02.612Cutaneous abscess of left footUse when an abscess is confirmed on the left foot without diabetic complications.
  • Imaging confirming abscess
  • Clinical examination showing fluctuance and purulence

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

The ICD-10 code for a foot abscess is L02.61x, with specific codes for right (L02.611) and left (L02.612) foot.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for abscess of foot

Cutaneous abscess of right foot
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of abscess on right foot confirmed by imaging

Applicable To

  • Abscess of right foot

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging confirming abscess
  • Clinical examination showing fluctuance and purulence

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect laterality documentation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure laterality is documented clearly.

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

B95.61
Use when culture identifies Staphylococcus aureus.

Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B95.62
Use when culture identifies MRSA.

Differential Codes

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

Non-pressure chronic ulcer of right foot

L97.511
Use when ulceration is present without abscess.

Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left foot

L97.512
Use when ulceration is present without abscess.

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: Podiatry

Required Elements

  • Location and laterality
  • Size and depth
  • Diabetes status
  • Culture results

Example Documentation

Patient presents with a 3 cm abscess on the plantar surface of the left foot. Type 2 diabetes with neuropathy noted. Culture pending.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Drained abscess from foot.
Good Documentation Example
Incision and drainage of 3 cm abscess on plantar left foot. Patient has type 2 diabetes with neuropathy.
Explanation
The good example provides specific location, size, and associated conditions, improving clarity and coding accuracy.

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

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