ICD-10 Coding for Finger Laceration(S61.211A)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Finger Laceration. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Finger Laceration
S61.2-S61.3Primary Range
Injuries to the fingers and hand
This range includes codes for lacerations specific to the fingers, detailing the type and extent of injury.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for finger laceration
Essential facts and insights about Finger Laceration
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for finger laceration
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of a laceration without foreign body on the left index finger
documentation Criteria
- Detailed description of the laceration including depth and absence of foreign body
Applicable To
- Superficial laceration
- Deep laceration without tendon involvement
Excludes
- Laceration with foreign body
- Laceration with tendon involvement
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Physical examination confirming laceration depth and location
- Documentation of no foreign body presence
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect laterality documentation
- Omission of encounter type
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the encounter type and laterality.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Retained foreign body
Z18.-Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Laceration with nail damage of left index finger, initial encounter
S61.212ADocumentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Finger Laceration to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S61.211A.
Impact
Clinical: Misleading treatment records, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Financial: Potential claim rejections
Mitigation Strategy
Always include 'initial', 'subsequent', or 'sequela' in notes, Educate staff on encounter type importance
Impact
Reimbursement: Claims may be denied or delayed., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records and statistics.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify the exact finger and side (e.g., left index finger).
Impact
Failure to specify laterality can lead to audit flags.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement double-check system for laterality in documentation.
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 Finger Laceration, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Finger Laceration
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Finger Laceration. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Visit for Finger Laceration
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Location and laterality of the laceration
- Depth and length of the wound
- Presence or absence of foreign body
- Repair method used
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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