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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS31.001

S31.001

Billable

Unspecified open wound of lower back and pelvis with penetration into retroperitoneum

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S31.001 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified open wound of lower back and pelvis with penetration into retroperitoneum.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The code S31.001 refers to an unspecified open wound located in the lower back and pelvis region that has penetrated into the retroperitoneum. This type of injury is often associated with significant trauma, such as that resulting from motor vehicle accidents, falls, or penetrating injuries from sharp objects or gunshot wounds. The retroperitoneum is a space in the abdominal cavity behind the peritoneum, and injuries here can lead to serious complications, including hemorrhage, infection, and damage to vital structures such as the kidneys, ureters, and major blood vessels. Clinical management typically involves emergency surgical intervention to control bleeding, repair any damaged organs, and prevent infection. The complexity of treatment and coding arises from the need for thorough documentation of the injury's extent, associated injuries, and the surgical procedures performed. Accurate coding is crucial for appropriate reimbursement and to reflect the severity of the patient's condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Need for detailed documentation of the injury's extent and location
  • Potential for associated injuries to other organs (e.g., genitourinary, vascular)
  • Variability in surgical interventions based on injury severity
  • Differentiation from similar codes for other types of wounds

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify the extent of the wound
  • Lack of clarity on associated injuries
  • Improper linkage of surgical procedures to the diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Trauma Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and notes on the mechanism of injury.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of trauma patients with open wounds and potential organ damage.

Billing Considerations

Accurate coding requires understanding of the surgical interventions performed and their relation to the injury.

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Records of any genitourinary injuries, imaging results, and surgical notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with pelvic injuries affecting the urinary tract.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly outline any urological complications resulting from the injury.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S31.001 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, this code should be used when the specific type of open wound is not documented
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that any associated injuries are also coded appropriately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S31.001 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

49002CPT Code

Exploratory laparotomy

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of suspected retroperitoneal injury.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing findings and interventions.

Specialty Considerations

Trauma surgeons must document the extent of the injury and any repairs performed.

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 those involving the retroperitoneum. This specificity aids in better tracking of trauma cases and improves the accuracy of healthcare data.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries, including those involving the retroperitoneum. This specificity aids in better tracking of trauma cases and improves the accuracy of healthcare data.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement and to reflect the complexity of care provided.

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 significance of coding S31.001 accurately?

Accurate coding of S31.001 is crucial for appropriate reimbursement, tracking of trauma cases, and ensuring that the severity of the patient's condition is reflected in the medical record.