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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS61.051

S61.051

Billable

Open bite of right thumb without damage to nail

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S61.051 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of open bite of right thumb without damage to nail.

Key Diagnostic Point:

An open bite of the right thumb refers to a traumatic injury where the skin is punctured or lacerated, resulting in an open wound without any damage to the nail. This type of injury can occur due to various incidents, such as animal bites, human bites, or accidents involving sharp objects. The thumb, being a crucial digit for hand function, is particularly susceptible to such injuries. Clinically, the open bite may present with swelling, redness, and pain at the site of injury. It is essential to assess for potential complications, including infection, tendon injuries, or nerve damage, which can affect the thumb's mobility and function. Treatment typically involves cleaning the wound, possibly suturing if the laceration is deep, and monitoring for signs of infection. In some cases, a tetanus shot may be required if the patient's vaccination status is not up to date. Proper documentation of the injury's mechanism, extent, and treatment is critical for accurate coding and billing.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between open and closed injuries
  • Assessing for associated injuries (tendons, nerves)
  • Documenting the mechanism of injury accurately
  • Determining the need for surgical intervention

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the injury mechanism
  • Failure to note associated injuries
  • Incorrect coding of the injury site
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for treatment outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Detailed account of the injury mechanism, treatment provided, and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with bites from animals or humans, or injuries from sharp objects.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document any signs of infection or complications that may arise.

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of the injury, including imaging results if applicable.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for severe lacerations or associated fractures.

Billing Considerations

Document any surgical procedures performed and the rationale for intervention.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S61.051 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the injury's specifics
  • Include details about the mechanism of injury and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S61.051 When
  • Exclude codes for injuries with nail damage or those classified as closed

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

12001CPT Code

Simple repair of superficial wounds

Clinical Scenario

Used when the open bite requires suturing.

Documentation Requirements

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

Specialty Considerations

Ensure the procedure is performed by a qualified provider.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries, improving the accuracy of medical records and billing. S61.051 provides a clear distinction for open bites, facilitating better patient management and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries, improving the accuracy of medical records and billing. S61.051 provides a clear distinction for open bites, facilitating better patient management and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

billing. S61.051 provides a clear distinction for open bites, facilitating better patient management 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 is the difference between an open bite and a closed bite?

An open bite involves a break in the skin, exposing underlying tissues, while a closed bite does not penetrate the skin.