ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS61.009

S61.009

Billable

Unspecified open wound of unspecified thumb without damage to nail

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S61.009 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified open wound of unspecified thumb without damage to nail.

Key Diagnostic Point:

An unspecified open wound of the thumb refers to a traumatic injury that results in a break in the skin, exposing underlying tissues without any damage to the nail. This type of injury can occur due to various mechanisms such as lacerations, punctures, or abrasions. The thumb, being a critical digit for hand function, is susceptible to injuries that can affect not only the skin but also underlying structures such as tendons, nerves, and blood vessels. The clinical presentation may include pain, swelling, and bleeding at the site of injury. Depending on the severity, treatment may range from simple wound care to more complex surgical interventions. It is essential to assess for associated injuries, such as fractures or tendon lacerations, which may complicate the healing process and affect hand function. Accurate documentation of the injury mechanism, location, and any associated injuries is crucial for appropriate coding and treatment planning.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in injury mechanisms (e.g., laceration vs. puncture)
  • Potential for associated injuries (e.g., fractures, tendon injuries)
  • Need for detailed documentation to specify the nature of the wound
  • Differentiation from similar codes for other finger injuries

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to identify associated injuries (e.g., fractures, tendon damage)
  • Incorrect coding due to lack of specificity
  • Inconsistent use of codes for similar injuries

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the injury, treatment plan, and any surgical interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures associated with open wounds, tendon repairs, and reconstructive surgeries.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document any complications or additional procedures performed during surgery.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Thorough assessment of the wound, including size, depth, and any foreign bodies present.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Acute trauma cases presenting with open wounds requiring immediate care.

Billing Considerations

Document the mechanism of injury and any immediate interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S61.009 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring to capture the specific nature of the wound and any associated injuries
  • Use additional codes to specify complications or related conditions as necessary

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S61.009 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

12001CPT Code

Simple repair of superficial wounds

Clinical Scenario

Used for suturing an open wound on the thumb.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size of the wound and the method of closure.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons may perform more complex repairs if associated injuries are present.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding injuries, including open wounds. This has improved the ability to track and analyze hand injuries, leading to better treatment protocols and outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding injuries, including open wounds. This has improved the ability to track and analyze hand injuries, leading to better treatment protocols and outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding injuries, including open wounds. This has improved the ability to track and analyze hand injuries, leading to better treatment protocols and outcomes.

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 difference between an open wound and a closed wound?

An open wound involves a break in the skin, exposing underlying tissues, while a closed wound does not break the skin and may involve bruising or internal damage.