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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS01.30

S01.30

Billable

Unspecified open wound of ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S01.30 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified open wound of ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

An unspecified open wound of the ear refers to a traumatic injury that results in a break in the skin or mucous membrane of the ear, which may involve the external ear structures such as the auricle or the ear canal. These wounds can occur due to various mechanisms, including lacerations, abrasions, or punctures, often resulting from accidents, falls, or assaults. The clinical presentation may include bleeding, pain, and potential exposure of underlying tissues. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough physical examination to assess the extent of the injury, possible foreign bodies, and associated injuries. Management may include cleaning the wound, controlling bleeding, and, if necessary, suturing or other surgical interventions. Complications can arise, including infection, scarring, or damage to the ear structures, which may affect hearing or cosmetic appearance. Accurate coding requires detailed documentation of the injury's nature, location, and treatment provided.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in injury presentation and severity
  • Need for detailed documentation of wound characteristics
  • Potential for associated injuries requiring additional codes
  • Differentiation from similar codes for specific types of ear injuries

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify the location of the wound
  • Misuse of unspecified codes when specific codes are available
  • Inconsistent coding across different encounters for the same injury

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include details of the injury mechanism, initial assessment findings, and treatment provided in the emergency setting.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with lacerations from accidents, animal bites, or sports injuries.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant details are captured to support the diagnosis and treatment provided, especially in cases of complex injuries.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports must detail the surgical procedure performed, including any repairs or interventions on the ear.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical management of complex lacerations or reconstruction of ear structures.

Billing Considerations

Document the surgical approach and any complications encountered during the procedure.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S01.30 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code reflects the most specific diagnosis possible based on the documentation provided

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S01.30 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

12001CPT Code

Simple repair of superficial wounds of the face, ears, eyelids, nose, scalp

Clinical Scenario

Used when suturing an open wound of the ear.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size and location of the wound, as well as the method of repair.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the procedure is linked to the diagnosis of an open wound.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries, which can improve data accuracy and facilitate better patient care management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries, which can improve data accuracy and facilitate better patient care management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries, which can improve data accuracy and facilitate better patient care management.

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 open wound of the ear?

Document the mechanism of injury, the extent of the wound, any foreign bodies present, and the treatment provided, including any suturing or surgical interventions.