Gas gangrene
ICD-10 A48.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of gas gangrene.
Gas gangrene is a severe and potentially life-threatening infection caused primarily by Clostridium species, particularly Clostridium perfringens. This condition is characterized by rapid onset of symptoms, including severe pain, swelling, and the presence of gas in tissues, which can be detected through imaging studies. The infection typically occurs in wounds, especially those that are deep and contaminated, such as traumatic injuries or surgical wounds. In immunocompromised patients, such as those with diabetes, cancer, or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy, the risk of developing gas gangrene is significantly heightened. The diagnosis can be challenging due to the rapid progression of the disease and the need for prompt identification of the causative organism through culture or molecular methods. Treatment involves urgent surgical intervention to remove necrotic tissue, along with high-dose intravenous antibiotics. The condition can lead to systemic toxicity and requires immediate medical attention to prevent severe complications or death.
Detailed clinical notes on the patient's history, presenting symptoms, and laboratory findings.
Patients presenting with necrotizing fasciitis or severe soft tissue infections.
Documentation must reflect the urgency of treatment and any comorbid conditions.
Operative reports detailing the extent of necrotic tissue removal and any complications encountered.
Surgical intervention for traumatic wounds or post-operative infections.
Accurate coding of surgical procedures performed in conjunction with the diagnosis.
Used for surgical debridement of necrotic tissue in gas gangrene cases.
Operative report detailing the extent of debridement and rationale.
Surgeons must document the urgency and necessity of the procedure.
Common symptoms include severe pain at the infection site, swelling, fever, and the presence of gas in tissues, which may be detected through imaging.
Treatment typically involves urgent surgical debridement of necrotic tissue and high-dose intravenous antibiotics.
Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with diabetes or undergoing chemotherapy, are at higher risk for developing gas gangrene.
