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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS01.00

S01.00

Billable

Unspecified open wound of scalp

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S01.00 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified open wound of scalp.

Key Diagnostic Point:

An unspecified open wound of the scalp refers to a traumatic injury characterized by a break in the skin on the scalp, which may involve varying degrees of tissue damage. This type of injury can result from various mechanisms, including blunt force trauma, lacerations, or penetrating injuries. The scalp is highly vascularized, making it prone to significant bleeding even with minor injuries. Clinical evaluation typically involves a thorough physical examination to assess the extent of the wound, including depth, size, and any associated injuries. Diagnostic imaging may be warranted if there is suspicion of underlying skull fractures or intracranial injury. Management often includes wound cleaning, possible suturing, and monitoring for complications such as infection or hematoma formation. The unspecified nature of this code indicates that the specific details of the wound are not documented, which can complicate treatment planning and coding accuracy.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in documentation quality
  • Potential for multiple injury types in a single encounter
  • Need for specificity in coding for accurate reimbursement
  • Differentiation from other scalp injuries

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of wound characteristics
  • Failure to specify associated injuries
  • Misuse of unspecified codes leading to denials
  • Inconsistent coding practices among providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include a detailed description of the wound, mechanism of injury, and any immediate interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Trauma cases presenting with scalp lacerations from falls, sports injuries, or assaults.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant details are captured to avoid coding errors and ensure appropriate reimbursement.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports should detail the surgical approach, extent of the wound, and any repairs performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical management of complex scalp lacerations requiring closure or reconstruction.

Billing Considerations

Accurate coding is essential for surgical procedures, particularly when multiple codes may apply.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S01.00 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, which emphasize the importance of specificity and the need to document the mechanism of injury and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S01.00 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

12001CPT Code

Simple repair of scalp laceration

Clinical Scenario

Used when a simple laceration repair is performed on the scalp.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size and location of the laceration, as well as the repair technique used.

Specialty Considerations

Emergency medicine and surgical specialties should ensure accurate coding based on the complexity of the repair.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding injuries, including scalp wounds. This has improved the ability to capture the severity and nature of injuries, which is essential for appropriate treatment and reimbursement.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding injuries, including scalp wounds. This has improved the ability to capture the severity and nature of injuries, which is essential for appropriate treatment and reimbursement.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 should I document for an unspecified open wound of the scalp?

Document the mechanism of injury, the size and depth of the wound, any bleeding, and the treatment provided. Ensure that any associated injuries are also noted.