Unspecified open wound of vocal cord
ICD-10 S11.039 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified open wound of vocal cord.
An unspecified open wound of the vocal cord refers to a traumatic injury that disrupts the integrity of the vocal cord tissue, which may occur due to various mechanisms such as blunt or penetrating trauma, thermal injury, or chemical exposure. The vocal cords, located in the larynx, are essential for phonation and airway protection. Open wounds can lead to significant complications, including infection, scarring, and voice changes. The clinical presentation may include hoarseness, stridor, or respiratory distress, depending on the severity of the injury. Diagnosis typically involves laryngoscopy to visualize the vocal cords and assess the extent of the injury. Management may include supportive care, voice rest, and in some cases, surgical intervention to repair the wound or address complications. The prognosis varies based on the injury's severity and the timeliness of treatment.
Documentation should include a detailed account of the mechanism of injury, initial assessment findings, and any immediate interventions performed.
Trauma patients presenting with laryngeal injuries from accidents, assaults, or foreign body ingestion.
Ensure that all relevant details about the injury and patient history are captured to support the coding.
Operative reports must detail the surgical approach, findings, and any repairs made to the vocal cords.
Surgical intervention for vocal cord repair following trauma or thermal injury.
Document any complications or additional procedures performed during surgery.
Used to evaluate vocal cord injuries in emergency settings.
Document indications for the procedure and findings.
Emergency medicine and ENT specialists should ensure accurate coding based on findings.
An open wound involves a break in the skin or mucosal surface, exposing underlying tissues, while a closed wound does not disrupt the surface integrity.
