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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS41.042

S41.042

Billable

Puncture wound with foreign body of left shoulder

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/24/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S41.042 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of puncture wound with foreign body of left shoulder.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A puncture wound with a foreign body of the left shoulder refers to an injury characterized by a penetrating injury to the shoulder area, which may involve the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and potentially deeper structures such as muscles, tendons, or even the joint capsule. This type of injury can occur due to various incidents, including accidents involving sharp objects, animal bites, or impalement injuries. The presence of a foreign body complicates the clinical picture, as it may lead to infection, inflammation, or further damage to the surrounding tissues. Clinically, patients may present with localized pain, swelling, and redness at the site of injury, and there may be a visible entry point. Diagnostic imaging may be required to assess the extent of the injury and the location of the foreign body. Treatment typically involves careful removal of the foreign object, thorough cleaning of the wound, and possibly surgical intervention if there is significant tissue damage or if the foreign body is deeply embedded. Follow-up care is essential to monitor for signs of infection or complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Need for precise documentation of the foreign body type and location
  • Potential for associated injuries (e.g., rotator cuff tears, fractures)
  • Variability in treatment approaches based on the foreign body and injury severity
  • Differentiation from other shoulder injuries (e.g., dislocations, fractures)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the foreign body and its removal
  • Failure to document associated injuries or complications
  • Incorrect coding of the injury type or location
  • Lack of follow-up documentation to support ongoing treatment

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes describing the procedure for foreign body removal and any associated repairs.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with puncture wounds from accidents, sports injuries, or animal bites requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all associated injuries (e.g., fractures, dislocations) are documented and coded appropriately.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive documentation of the mechanism of injury, initial assessment, and treatment provided in the emergency department.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with acute puncture wounds presenting to the emergency department for evaluation and treatment.

Billing Considerations

Document any imaging studies performed and the rationale for surgical referral if necessary.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S41.042 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the injury type, location, and any foreign bodies present
  • Include any associated injuries or complications in the coding process

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S41.042 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

24000CPT Code

Incision and drainage of abscess, shoulder

Clinical Scenario

Used when the puncture wound becomes infected and requires drainage.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size of the abscess, location, and any cultures taken.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons may perform this procedure in conjunction with foreign body removal.

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 with foreign bodies. This specificity aids in better tracking of injury types and treatment outcomes, ultimately improving patient care.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

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

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

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

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 importance of documenting the foreign body in a puncture wound?

Documenting the foreign body is crucial as it affects treatment decisions, potential complications, and the coding process. Accurate documentation ensures appropriate reimbursement and helps in tracking outcomes.