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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesP12.89

P12.89

Billable

Other birth injuries to scalp

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 P12.89 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other birth injuries to scalp.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Birth injuries to the scalp can occur during the delivery process, often resulting from mechanical forces exerted on the fetal head. Caput succedaneum is a common condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the soft tissues of the head, leading to a swelling that crosses suture lines. This condition typically resolves within a few days without intervention. Cephalohematoma, on the other hand, involves bleeding between the skull and the periosteum, which does not cross suture lines and may take weeks to resolve. A chignon is a localized swelling that can occur due to the use of vacuum extraction during delivery, resulting in a distinct shape on the newborn's head. These conditions, while generally benign, require careful documentation and monitoring to ensure proper management and to avoid complications such as jaundice or infection. Accurate coding is essential for tracking outcomes and ensuring appropriate care for affected newborns.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between caput succedaneum and cephalohematoma
  • Understanding the implications of vacuum-assisted deliveries
  • Documenting the timing and nature of the injury
  • Identifying associated complications such as jaundice

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the type of birth injury
  • Failure to specify the method of delivery (e.g., vacuum extraction)
  • Misclassification of caput succedaneum vs. cephalohematoma
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on resolution of the injury

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neonatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the delivery process, including any interventions and the newborn's condition at birth.

Common Clinical Scenarios

NICU admissions for monitoring of jaundice or other complications arising from scalp injuries.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of the infant's gestational age and overall health status when coding.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive history of the birth injury and any subsequent pediatric evaluations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Follow-up visits for infants with scalp injuries to monitor healing and development.

Billing Considerations

Awareness of potential long-term effects of scalp injuries on development.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use P12.89 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding birth injuries, ensuring specificity in documentation and adherence to coding conventions for perinatal conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use P12.89 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99460CPT Code

Initial hospital care, per day, for evaluation and management of a normal newborn

Clinical Scenario

Used in conjunction with P12.89 for newborns with scalp injuries requiring monitoring.

Documentation Requirements

Document the newborn's condition, any interventions, and follow-up plans.

Specialty Considerations

Neonatologists should ensure detailed notes on the delivery process and any complications.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of birth injuries, improving the ability to track and manage these conditions effectively.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of birth injuries, improving the ability to track and manage these conditions effectively.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of birth injuries, improving the ability to track and manage these conditions effectively.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between caput succedaneum and cephalohematoma?

Caput succedaneum is characterized by swelling that crosses suture lines due to fluid accumulation, while cephalohematoma is a collection of blood that does not cross suture lines and is confined to the area over the skull.