ICD-10 Coding for Left Foot Abscess(L02.612, E11.628, M86.072)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Left Foot Abscess. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Left Foot Abscess
L02.6-L02.9Primary Range
Cutaneous abscess, furuncle and carbuncle
This range includes codes for abscesses located on different parts of the body, with L02.612 specifically for the left foot.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus with specified complications
Used when the abscess is a complication of diabetes.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| L02.612 | Cutaneous abscess of left foot | Use when the abscess is confined to the skin or subcutaneous tissue of the left foot without underlying conditions like diabetes or osteomyelitis. |
|
| E11.628 | Type 2 diabetes mellitus with other skin complications | Use when the abscess is a complication of diabetes, typically presenting with a foot ulcer. |
|
| M86.072 | Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis, left ankle and foot | Use when imaging or biopsy confirms osteomyelitis in conjunction with the abscess. |
|
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 left foot abscess
Essential facts and insights about Left Foot Abscess
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for left foot abscess
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of a localized, fluctuant mass on the left foot
coding Criteria
- Absence of systemic conditions like diabetes
Applicable To
- Superficial abscess of left foot
Excludes
- Diabetic foot ulcer with abscess (E11.628)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Erythema and swelling localized to the left foot
- Ultrasound showing fluid collection
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusing with deeper infections or diabetic complications
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is specified and differentiate between superficial and deeper infections.
E11.628 - Type 2 diabetes mellitus with other skin complications
Use when the abscess is a complication of diabetes, typically presenting with a foot ulcer.
Applicable To
- Diabetic foot ulcer with abscess
Excludes
- Non-diabetic abscess (L02.612)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented history of type 2 diabetes
- Abscess occurring in the context of a diabetic foot ulcer
Coding Notes
Always sequence diabetes-related codes first when applicable.
M86.072 - Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis, left ankle and foot
Use when imaging or biopsy confirms osteomyelitis in conjunction with the abscess.
Applicable To
- Osteomyelitis associated with abscess
Excludes
- Simple cutaneous abscess (L02.612)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing bone marrow edema
- Positive bone biopsy
Coding Notes
Ensure imaging and biopsy results are documented to support the diagnosis.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Staphylococcus aureus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere
B95.6Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Cellulitis of left lower limb
L03.116Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left Foot Abscess to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L02.612.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate clinical records, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential claim denials
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the side of the body affected, Use templates that prompt for laterality
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect sequencing can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Always list E11.628 before L02.612 when the abscess is diabetes-related.
Impact
Failure to sequence diabetes-related codes correctly can lead to audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement coding audits to ensure compliance with sequencing rules.
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 Left Foot Abscess, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Left Foot Abscess
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Left Foot Abscess. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Superficial abscess drainage
Specialty: PodiatryRequired Elements
- Location of abscess
- Depth of incision
- Type of anesthesia used
- Post-procedure care instructions
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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