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ICD-10 Coding for Hematoma(T81.0, M79.81)

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

Also known as:

BruiseBlood ClotContusion

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Hematoma

T81.0-T81.9Primary Range

Complications of procedures, not elsewhere classified

Includes postprocedural hematomas and related complications.

Other specified soft tissue disorders

Includes nontraumatic hematomas not related to procedures.

Hemorrhagic disorder due to extrinsic circulating anticoagulants

Used for anticoagulant-induced hematomas.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
T81.0Postprocedural hematomaUse when hematoma is directly linked to a recent procedure.
  • Operative note confirming procedure site
  • Imaging showing hematoma size
M79.81Nontraumatic hematoma of soft tissueUse for spontaneous hematomas not linked to trauma or procedures.
  • Documentation of nontraumatic etiology
  • INR >3.0 if anticoagulant-related

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: How to code a postprocedural hematoma

Essential facts and insights about Hematoma

A postprocedural hematoma is coded as T81.0 when linked to a recent procedure.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for hematoma

Postprocedural hematoma
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Hematoma occurs at the site of a recent procedure.

Applicable To

  • Post-surgical hematoma

Excludes

  • Traumatic hematoma

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Operative note confirming procedure site
  • Imaging showing hematoma size

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if not clearly linked to a procedure

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the procedure and hematoma linkage.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Infection following a procedure

T81.4
Use when infection complicates the hematoma.

Hemorrhagic disorder due to anticoagulants

D68.3
Use when anticoagulants contribute to the hematoma.

Differential Codes

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

Nontraumatic hematoma of soft tissue

M79.81
Use when hematoma is spontaneous or medication-related.

Postprocedural hematoma

T81.0
Use when hematoma is linked to a procedure.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Hematoma to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code T81.0.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate clinical assessment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use standardized templates, Regular training on documentation

Impact

Reimbursement: Potential denial of claims due to incorrect coding., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify documentation for trauma history before coding.

Impact

Risk of misclassification without clear documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed operative notes and imaging.

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

Documentation Templates for Hematoma

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

Postprocedural hematoma

Specialty: Surgery

Required Elements

  • Procedure date
  • Hematoma location
  • Size and symptoms

Example Documentation

Post-cardiac catheterization hematoma at access site, 4cm, requiring transfusion.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Hematoma drained.
Good Documentation Example
3cm fluctuant left forearm hematoma, nontraumatic, drained under ultrasound guidance.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details on size, location, and procedure.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Hematoma? Ask your questions below.

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