ICD-10 Coding for Finger Infection(L03.011, L02.611)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Finger Infection. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Finger Infection
L02-L03Primary Range
Infections of the skin and subcutaneous tissue
This range includes codes for cellulitis and abscesses of the finger, which are common types of finger infections.
Bacterial and viral infectious agents
These codes are used to identify the specific infectious organism involved in the finger infection.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| L03.011 | Cellulitis of right finger | Use when there is confirmed cellulitis of the right finger without abscess formation. |
|
| L02.611 | Abscess of right finger | Use when there is a confirmed abscess with purulent drainage in the right finger. |
|
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 finger infection
Essential facts and insights about Finger Infection
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for finger infection
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of erythema and tenderness without fluctuance
Applicable To
- Infection of right finger skin
Excludes
- Abscess of right finger (L02.611)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Erythema, warmth, and tenderness of right finger without fluctuance
Code-Specific Risks
- Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified coding.
Coding Notes
- Document the presence of erythema and tenderness to support cellulitis coding.
L02.611 - Abscess of right finger
Use when there is a confirmed abscess with purulent drainage in the right finger.
Applicable To
- Infection with pus formation in right finger
Excludes
- Cellulitis of right finger (L03.011)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Fluctuant abscess measuring ≥2 cm with purulent drainage from right index finger
Coding Notes
Document the size and drainage of the abscess to support coding.
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
B95.61Differential 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 Finger Infection to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L03.011.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to ambiguity in patient records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always include laterality in clinical documentation., Use templates to ensure completeness.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: May result in non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify the presence of fluctuance and purulent drainage to confirm abscess.
Impact
Failure to document abscess size and drainage can lead to audit findings.
Mitigation Strategy
Use detailed templates and checklists to ensure all required information is documented.
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 Finger Infection, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Finger Infection
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Finger Infection. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Documenting a finger abscess
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Location and laterality
- Size and depth of abscess
- Presence of purulent drainage
- Treatment details
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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