ICD-10 Coding for Laceration of Left Thumb(S61.012A)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Laceration of Left Thumb. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Laceration of Left Thumb
S61.01-S61.12Primary Range
Open wound of wrist, hand, and fingers
This range includes codes for lacerations and open wounds of the hand and fingers, including the left thumb.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for laceration left thumb
Essential facts and insights about Laceration of Left Thumb
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for laceration left thumb
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Confirmed laceration without foreign body or nail damage
documentation Criteria
- Detailed description of laceration including location, depth, and absence of foreign body
Applicable To
- Simple laceration of left thumb
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Physical examination confirming laceration without foreign body
- No nail bed involvement
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding as unspecified if laterality is documented
- Missing documentation of foreign body status
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies absence of foreign body and nail involvement.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Laceration of flexor tendon of left thumb
S66.021ADifferential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Laceration of Left Thumb to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S61.012A.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims or audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Always assess and document nail status., Use templates to ensure comprehensive documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of health records.
Mitigation Strategy
Always use specific codes like S61.012A when laterality is known.
Impact
Using unspecified codes when laterality is documented.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement checks to ensure laterality is always specified 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 Laceration of Left Thumb, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Laceration of Left Thumb
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Laceration of Left Thumb. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Note for Left Thumb Laceration
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Location and size of laceration
- Depth and structures involved
- Foreign body presence
- Repair method
- Tetanus status
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Laceration of Left Thumb? Ask your questions below.