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 CodesS61.254

S61.254

Billable

Open bite of right ring finger without damage to nail

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S61.254 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of open bite of right ring finger without damage to nail.

Key Diagnostic Point:

An open bite of the right ring finger refers to a traumatic injury where the skin is punctured or lacerated, resulting in an open wound, but without any damage to the nail. This type of injury can occur due to various mechanisms, including animal bites, human bites, or sharp object injuries. Clinically, it is essential to assess the extent of the injury, as open bites can lead to complications such as infection, tendon damage, or nerve injury. The ring finger, being a vital digit for grip and dexterity, may require careful evaluation of the surrounding structures, including tendons and nerves. Treatment often involves wound care, possible surgical intervention to repair any damaged structures, and rehabilitation to restore function. Proper coding is crucial for accurate billing and to ensure that the patient's medical history reflects the nature of the injury and the treatment provided.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between open and closed injuries
  • Assessing potential tendon and nerve involvement
  • Documenting the mechanism of injury accurately
  • Understanding the implications of associated injuries

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to document associated injuries (e.g., tendon or nerve damage)
  • Incorrect coding of the injury type (open vs. closed)
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for treatment outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the injury mechanism, physical examination findings, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures or tendon injuries following an open bite, requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document any surgical procedures performed, including repair of tendons or nerves.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of the wound, including size, depth, and any signs of infection.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with open bites requiring immediate care and potential surgical referral.

Billing Considerations

Document any tetanus prophylaxis administered and the patient's tetanus vaccination history.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S61.254 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for injuries, ensuring accurate documentation of the injury type and any associated complications
  • Include details about the mechanism of injury and treatment provided

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S61.254 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

12001CPT Code

Simple repair of superficial wounds

Clinical Scenario

Used for repair of the open bite wound on the right ring finger.

Documentation Requirements

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

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should note any tendon repair performed during the procedure.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 allows for more specific coding of injuries, improving the accuracy of patient records and billing. S61.254 provides a clear distinction for open bites, which can lead to better management and treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 allows for more specific coding of injuries, improving the accuracy of patient records and billing. S61.254 provides a clear distinction for open bites, which can lead to better management and treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

billing. S61.254 provides a clear distinction for open bites, which can lead to better management and treatment 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 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. Open bites require different management and coding.