ICD-10 Coding for Hematoma of the Leg(M79.81, S70.0XXA)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Hematoma of the Leg. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Hematoma of the Leg
M79.81Primary Range
Nontraumatic hematoma of soft tissue
Primary code for nontraumatic hematomas of the leg.
Hemorrhagic disorder due to anticoagulants
Used when hematoma is related to anticoagulant therapy.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M79.81 | Nontraumatic hematoma of soft tissue | Use when the hematoma is nontraumatic and located in the leg. |
|
| S70.0XXA | Contusion of thigh | Use when the hematoma is traumatic and located in the thigh. |
|
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 hematoma leg
Essential facts and insights about Hematoma of the Leg
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for hematoma leg
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- No evidence of trauma
documentation Criteria
- Specific location and nontraumatic nature documented
Applicable To
- Nontraumatic hematoma of the leg
Excludes
- Traumatic hematoma (S70.0XXA)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of nontraumatic origin
- Location specified (e.g., thigh, calf)
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if trauma is not ruled out
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies nontraumatic nature.
S70.0XXA - Contusion of thigh
Use when the hematoma is traumatic and located in the thigh.
Applicable To
- Traumatic hematoma of the thigh
Excludes
- Nontraumatic hematoma (M79.81)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of trauma
- Mechanism of injury described
Coding Notes
Ensure trauma is clearly documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Hemorrhagic disorder due to anticoagulants
D68.3Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Hematoma of the Leg to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M79.81.
Impact
Clinical: May affect patient management, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential loss of reimbursement
Mitigation Strategy
Review medication list, Include anticoagulant use in assessment
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data
Mitigation Strategy
Query provider for confirmation of trauma
Impact
Risk of coding errors without clear trauma documentation
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure trauma is explicitly documented or query provider
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 Hematoma of the Leg, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Hematoma of the Leg
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Hematoma of the Leg. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Nontraumatic hematoma in anticoagulated patient
Specialty: Internal MedicineRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Medication list
- Lab results
- Imaging studies
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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