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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS21.049

S21.049

Billable

Puncture wound with foreign body of unspecified breast

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/23/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S21.049 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of puncture wound with foreign body of unspecified breast.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A puncture wound with a foreign body in the breast is a specific type of injury that occurs when an object penetrates the breast tissue, potentially causing damage to underlying structures. This injury can result from various incidents, including accidents, assaults, or surgical procedures. The presence of a foreign body can complicate the healing process and may lead to infections, abscess formation, or other complications. Clinically, patients may present with localized pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or mammography, may be necessary to assess the extent of the injury and the presence of foreign material. Treatment typically involves the removal of the foreign body, wound care, and monitoring for signs of infection. In some cases, surgical intervention may be required, especially if there is significant tissue damage or if the foreign body is deeply embedded. Accurate coding of this condition is crucial for appropriate management and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in documentation of the injury mechanism
  • Need for precise localization of the injury
  • Potential for associated injuries (e.g., rib fractures, pneumothorax)
  • Differentiation from other types of breast injuries

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to note the presence of a foreign body
  • Lack of follow-up documentation regarding treatment outcomes
  • Improper coding of associated injuries

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Detailed account of the injury mechanism, physical examination findings, and any imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with stab wounds, accidental punctures, or post-surgical complications.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all associated injuries are documented, as they may affect treatment and coding.

General Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the removal of foreign bodies and any reconstructive procedures performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for foreign body removal, management of abscesses, or repair of damaged tissue.

Billing Considerations

Accurate coding of surgical procedures performed in conjunction with the injury is essential.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S21.049 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, S21
  • 049 should be used when a puncture wound with a foreign body is documented without specification of the breast's laterality
  • It is important to ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that any associated injuries are coded appropriately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S21.049 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

10120CPT Code

Incision and drainage of abscess

Clinical Scenario

Used when an abscess forms due to a puncture wound with a foreign body.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the reason for the procedure is clearly linked to the diagnosis.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries, including puncture wounds with foreign bodies. This specificity aids in better tracking of injury types and outcomes, ultimately improving patient care and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries, including puncture wounds with foreign bodies. This specificity aids in better tracking of injury types and outcomes, ultimately improving patient care and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries, including puncture wounds with foreign bodies. This specificity aids in better tracking of injury types and outcomes, ultimately improving patient care and resource allocation.

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 a puncture wound with a foreign body?

Document the mechanism of injury, the presence and type of foreign body, any associated injuries, and the treatment provided.