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ICD-10 Coding for Second-Degree Burn(T21.22XA)

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

Also known as:

Partial Thickness Burn2nd Degree Burn

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Second-Degree Burn

T20-T25Primary Range

Burns and corrosions by body region

This range includes codes for burns categorized by body region and severity, essential for coding second-degree burns.

Burns classified according to extent of body surface involved

Used to specify the extent of burns, particularly when TBSA is a factor in diagnosis and treatment.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for second-degree burn

Essential facts and insights about Second-Degree Burn

The ICD-10 code for a second-degree burn depends on the location, such as T21.22XA for the abdominal wall. Ensure to document the specific site and severity.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for second degree burn

Burn of second degree of abdominal wall, initial encounter
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of blistering and dermal involvement

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed description of burn site and extent

Applicable To

  • Blistering burn of abdominal wall

Excludes

  • Third-degree burn of abdominal wall

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Presence of blisters
  • Involvement of epidermis and part of dermis

Code-Specific Risks

  • Ensure correct laterality and specific site documentation.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure to document the specific site and laterality of the burn.

Ancillary Codes

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

Accident involving hot cooking oil, initial encounter

X96.2XXA
Use to describe the external cause of the burn.

Differential Codes

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

Burn of third degree of chest wall, initial encounter

T21.31XA
Third-degree burns involve full thickness of the skin, unlike second-degree.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Second-Degree Burn to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code T21.22XA.

Impact

Clinical: Incomplete clinical picture of the incident, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential loss of reimbursement for related treatments

Mitigation Strategy

Always document and code the external cause of the burn.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect sequencing can lead to improper DRG assignment., Compliance: May result in non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Sequence codes by severity, with the most severe burn coded first.

Impact

Failure to document the full extent and severity of burns can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement thorough documentation practices and regular training for staff.

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 Second-Degree Burn, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Second-Degree Burn

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Second-Degree Burn. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Emergency Department Burn Assessment

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Location and severity of burn
  • TBSA calculation
  • Mechanism of injury
  • Pain assessment

Example Documentation

LOCATION: Anterior right thigh SEVERITY: Second-degree (blisters present, pink moist wound bed) TBSA: 8% via Lund-Browder chart MECHANISM: Scalding water spill (X15.0XXA) PAIN ASSESSMENT: 7/10 on VAS scale INFECTION SIGNS: None TREATMENT: Silvadene dressing applied

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Burn on arm
Good Documentation Example
Second-degree burn (blistering, dermal involvement) involving 5% TBSA of anterior left forearm
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the burn's severity, location, and extent, which are necessary for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Second-Degree Burn? Ask your questions below.

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