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ICD-10 Coding for Right Thigh Abscess(L02.415)

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

Also known as:

Thigh BoilThigh Pus Collection

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Right Thigh Abscess

L02.41-L02.42Primary Range

Cutaneous abscess of limb

This range includes codes for abscesses specific to limbs, including the right thigh.

Bacterial and viral infectious agents

These codes are used to identify the organism causing the infection, such as MRSA.

Infection following a procedure

Used when the abscess is a result of a postprocedural infection.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for right thigh abscess

Essential facts and insights about Right Thigh Abscess

The ICD-10 code for a right thigh abscess is L02.415, used for documenting and billing purposes.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for right thigh abscess

Cutaneous abscess of right lower limb
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of a fluctuant mass in the right thigh

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed procedure note including incision and drainage specifics

Applicable To

  • Right thigh abscess

Excludes

  • Cellulitis of right lower limb (L03.115)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Clinical examination showing fluctuant mass
  • Imaging confirming fluid collection
  • Laboratory tests indicating infection

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect laterality documentation
  • Omission of complexity details in procedure

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies laterality and complexity of the procedure.

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

B95.6
Use when MRSA is identified as the causative organism.

Differential Codes

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

Cellulitis of right lower limb

L03.115
Use when there is erythema and warmth without a confirmed abscess.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Right Thigh Abscess to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L02.415.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate treatment documentation., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document if packing or drains were used.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect coding and reduced payment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data recording.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify 'right' in the documentation.

Impact

Failure to document laterality can lead to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement mandatory laterality checks 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 Right Thigh Abscess, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Right Thigh Abscess

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

Simple I&D Procedure

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Location and size of abscess
  • Procedure details
  • Post-procedure care

Example Documentation

Right thigh abscess (3cm) drained. Simple I&D performed, no packing.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Drained abscess.
Good Documentation Example
Right thigh abscess (3cm) drained with #11 blade, no packing.
Explanation
The good example specifies location, size, and procedure details.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Right Thigh Abscess? Ask your questions below.

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