Laceration with foreign body of left thumb with damage to nail
ICD-10 S61.122 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of laceration with foreign body of left thumb with damage to nail.
S61.122 refers to a specific type of injury characterized by a laceration of the left thumb that includes a foreign body and damage to the nail. This condition often arises from accidents involving sharp objects, machinery, or falls. The presence of a foreign body complicates the injury, as it may lead to infection or further tissue damage if not properly addressed. Clinically, the patient may present with pain, swelling, and bleeding at the site of injury. The nail may exhibit signs of trauma, such as discoloration, detachment, or fracture. Treatment typically involves thorough cleaning of the wound, removal of the foreign body, and possible surgical intervention to repair the nail bed or surrounding structures. The complexity of this injury necessitates careful assessment of associated structures, including tendons and nerves, to prevent long-term functional impairment. Proper documentation is crucial to ensure accurate coding and reimbursement, as well as to facilitate appropriate treatment planning.
Detailed operative notes including the extent of laceration, foreign body removal, and any repairs performed.
Injuries from machinery, sports injuries, or accidents involving sharp objects.
Ensure documentation reflects any nerve or tendon involvement for accurate coding.
Comprehensive assessment notes including mechanism of injury, initial treatment, and follow-up care.
Acute presentations of hand injuries in the emergency department.
Document all findings and treatments to support coding for complex injuries.
Used for repair of the laceration after foreign body removal.
Document the size of the wound and the method of repair.
Orthopedic surgeons may perform more complex repairs if tendon involvement is noted.
Document the mechanism of injury, the size and depth of the laceration, the type of foreign body, any associated injuries, and the treatment provided.