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ICD-10 Coding for Keloid Scar(L91.0)

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

Also known as:

Hypertrophic ScarKeloid

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Keloid Scar

L00-L99Primary Range

Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue

This range includes conditions related to skin disorders, including keloid scars.

Burns and corrosions

This range is relevant for coding sequelae of burns that result in keloid formation.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for keloid scar

Essential facts and insights about Keloid Scar

The ICD-10 code for a keloid scar is L91.0, used for hypertrophic scars requiring treatment.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for keloid scar

Hypertrophic scar
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of excessive collagen growth extending beyond the original wound

coding Criteria

  • Sequence burn or injury code first if keloid is a sequela

documentation Criteria

  • Include measurements and functional impact in documentation

Applicable To

  • Keloid

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented excessive collagen growth
  • Histopathological confirmation of keloidal collagen

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misidentifying hypertrophic scars as keloids
  • Incorrect sequencing with sequela codes

Coding Notes

  • Ensure to document the size, location, and symptoms of the keloid for accurate coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Burn of chest wall, sequela

T21.31XS
Use when the keloid is a result of a burn injury.

Differential Codes

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

Acne keloidalis

L73.0
Follicular-based lesions on the scalp or neck, not related to trauma.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Keloid Scar to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L91.0.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate treatment planning., Regulatory: Potential for audit issues., Financial: Risk of claim denial.

Mitigation Strategy

Include detailed descriptions, Use standardized templates

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect sequencing can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Always code the injury or burn sequela first, followed by L91.0.

Impact

Failure to document functional impairment can lead to denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all documentation includes specific functional limitations.

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

Documentation Templates for Keloid Scar

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

Keloid after ear piercing

Specialty: Dermatology

Required Elements

  • Location
  • Size
  • Symptoms
  • Functional Impact
  • History
  • Treatment Plan

Example Documentation

Location: Left earlobe; Size: 4.2 cm × 1.5 cm; Symptoms: Pruritus, pain; Functional Impact: Unable to wear earrings; History: Developed post-piercing; Treatment Plan: Intralesional triamcinolone.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Keloid noted.
Good Documentation Example
Keloid measuring 4.2 cm × 1.5 cm on left earlobe with pruritus and tenderness.
Explanation
The good example provides specific measurements and symptoms, which are necessary for accurate coding and reimbursement.

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

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