ICD-10 Coding for Skin Abrasion(S80.811A, L08.89)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Skin Abrasion. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Skin Abrasion
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| S80.811A | Abrasion, right lower leg, initial encounter | Use for non-infected abrasions on the right lower leg. |
|
| L08.89 | Other specified local infections of the skin and subcutaneous tissue | Use when an abrasion is documented as infected. |
|
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 skin abrasion
Essential facts and insights about Skin Abrasion
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for skin abrasion
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of partial-thickness skin loss without subcutaneous exposure
documentation Criteria
- Detailed location and size of abrasion
Applicable To
- Superficial injury of right lower leg
Excludes
- Open wound of right lower leg (S81.801A)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Partial-thickness skin loss without infection
- Documented as abrasion with location and size
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification with open wounds if subcutaneous tissue is exposed.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'abrasion' and not 'open wound' unless deeper tissue is involved.
L08.89 - Other specified local infections of the skin and subcutaneous tissue
Use when an abrasion is documented as infected.
Applicable To
- Infected abrasion
Excludes
- Cellulitis (L03.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Signs of infection such as erythema, purulence, or elevated WBC
Coding Notes
Document infection signs clearly to justify this code.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Other specified local infections of the skin and subcutaneous tissue
L08.89Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Skin Abrasion to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S80.811A.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always assess and document infection status.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect classification may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies the mechanism and appearance of the wound.
Impact
Failure to document infection signs can lead to audit issues.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all infection indicators are documented clearly.
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 Skin Abrasion, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Skin Abrasion
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Skin Abrasion. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency department visit for abrasion
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Location and size of abrasion
- Depth of skin loss
- Signs of infection
- Treatment provided
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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