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ICD-10 Coding for Left Foot Contusion(S90.32XA, R23.3)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Left Foot Contusion. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Bruise on Left FootLeft Foot Bruising

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Left Foot Contusion

S90.3-S90.39Primary Range

Superficial injury of foot

This range includes codes for contusions and other superficial injuries of the foot, with specific codes for left foot contusion.

Spontaneous ecchymosis

Used when bruising occurs without documented trauma, such as due to anticoagulant use.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
S90.32XAContusion of left foot, initial encounterUse for initial encounter when the patient presents with a traumatic contusion of the left foot.
  • Documented trauma mechanism
  • Physical exam findings: tenderness, swelling
  • Absence of fracture on imaging
R23.3Spontaneous ecchymosisUse when bruising occurs without a documented traumatic event.
  • No documented trauma
  • Possible anticoagulant use

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 contusion

Essential facts and insights about Left Foot Contusion

The ICD-10 code for a left foot contusion is S90.32XA for the initial encounter. Ensure trauma is documented and use the correct 7th character.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for left foot contusion

Contusion of left foot, initial encounter
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of trauma and physical exam findings consistent with contusion.

coding Criteria

  • Use of 7th character 'A' for initial encounter.

Applicable To

  • Bruising of left foot due to trauma

Excludes

  • Fracture of foot (S92.-)
  • Sprain of foot (S93.5-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented trauma mechanism
  • Physical exam findings: tenderness, swelling
  • Absence of fracture on imaging

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect use without trauma documentation
  • Omission of external cause code

Coding Notes

  • Ensure trauma is documented and use appropriate 7th character.

Ancillary Codes

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

Fall on same level

W19.XXXA
Use to specify the external cause of the contusion.

Differential Codes

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

Fracture of foot

S92.-
Use if imaging confirms a fracture.

Sprain of foot

S93.52-
Use if there is a ligament injury.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left Foot Contusion to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S90.32XA.

Impact

Clinical: Incomplete clinical picture of the injury., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding rules., Financial: Potential claim denials or delays.

Mitigation Strategy

Always check for and include an external cause code when documenting traumatic injuries.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify trauma documentation or use R23.3 if no trauma is present.

Impact

Lack of documented trauma can lead to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure thorough documentation of the injury mechanism.

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 Contusion, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Left Foot Contusion

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Left Foot Contusion. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Initial encounter for traumatic left foot contusion

Specialty: Podiatry

Required Elements

  • Mechanism of injury
  • Location and size of contusion
  • Physical exam findings
  • Imaging results

Example Documentation

Patient presents with left foot pain after tripping on stairs. Exam shows ecchymosis on dorsal foot, 4x3 cm. X-ray negative for fracture.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Left foot bruise.
Good Documentation Example
Contusion of left midfoot following direct impact during soccer game; tenderness (+), edema (+), no crepitus. X-ray negative for fracture.
Explanation
The good example provides detailed context, including mechanism and exam findings.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Left Foot Contusion? Ask your questions below.

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