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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS11.025

S11.025

Billable

Open bite of trachea

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S11.025 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of open bite of trachea.

Key Diagnostic Point:

An open bite of the trachea refers to a penetrating injury that disrupts the integrity of the tracheal wall, often resulting from trauma such as a stab wound, gunshot, or severe blunt force. This injury can lead to significant airway compromise, potential for aspiration, and risk of infection. Clinically, patients may present with respiratory distress, stridor, or hemoptysis. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as CT scans or bronchoscopy to assess the extent of the injury and any associated damage to surrounding structures. Management may require surgical intervention to repair the trachea, secure the airway, and prevent complications such as mediastinitis or tracheal stenosis. The prognosis depends on the severity of the injury, the timeliness of intervention, and the presence of any comorbid conditions.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires precise documentation of the mechanism of injury.
  • Potential for multiple associated injuries complicating coding.
  • Need for accurate assessment of the injury's severity.
  • Variability in surgical management and follow-up care.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury.
  • Failure to capture associated injuries or complications.
  • Misclassification of the type of tracheal injury.
  • Inconsistent coding practices across different providers.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include a thorough assessment of the airway, vital signs, and any immediate interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Trauma cases involving stabbings or gunshot wounds to the neck.

Billing Considerations

Rapid assessment and intervention are critical; ensure all findings are documented to support coding.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports should detail the surgical approach, repair techniques, and any complications encountered.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical repair of tracheal injuries following trauma.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all surgical findings and postoperative care are documented to support coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S11.025 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the injury type, mechanism, and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S11.025 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

31600CPT Code

Bronchoscopy, rigid or flexible

Clinical Scenario

Used for evaluation of tracheal injury.

Documentation Requirements

Document indications for bronchoscopy and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that findings are clearly linked to the diagnosis of tracheal injury.

31899CPT Code

Unlisted procedure, trachea

Clinical Scenario

Used when specific procedures for tracheal repair are not listed.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative report required.

Specialty Considerations

Justify the use of unlisted codes with comprehensive documentation.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tracheal injuries, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tracheal injuries, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

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 primary mechanism of injury for an open bite of the trachea?

The primary mechanism is typically penetrating trauma, such as from a stab wound or gunshot, which disrupts the tracheal wall.

How can I differentiate between open and closed tracheal injuries?

Open injuries involve a break in the skin and tracheal wall, while closed injuries do not penetrate the skin and are coded differently.