Laceration without foreign body of left little finger with damage to nail
ICD-10 S61.317 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of laceration without foreign body of left little finger with damage to nail.
S61.317 refers to a specific type of injury characterized by a laceration of the left little finger that does not involve any foreign body. This injury is significant due to the potential for damage to the nail and surrounding soft tissues. Lacerations of the fingers can vary in depth and severity, potentially affecting not only the skin but also underlying structures such as tendons, nerves, and blood vessels. In this case, the damage to the nail may indicate a more complex injury that could require surgical intervention. Proper assessment of the laceration is crucial, as it may involve the need for repair of the nail bed, which is essential for nail regrowth and function. The management of such injuries often includes cleaning the wound, suturing if necessary, and monitoring for signs of infection or complications. Accurate coding is vital for appropriate treatment reimbursement and to ensure that the patient's medical record reflects the severity of the injury.
Detailed descriptions of the laceration, any associated fractures, and surgical interventions performed.
Management of lacerations with potential tendon or nerve involvement, surgical repair of nail bed injuries.
Ensure that all surgical procedures are documented, including any repairs to underlying structures.
Thorough assessment notes, including mechanism of injury, initial treatment provided, and follow-up care instructions.
Acute presentation of lacerations, assessment for foreign bodies, and immediate wound care.
Document the patient's pain level and any immediate interventions performed to support coding for additional services.
Used when the laceration requires simple closure without deeper tissue involvement.
Document the size of the laceration and the method of closure.
Orthopedic surgeons may need to document any additional procedures performed.
Documenting nail damage is crucial as it can indicate the severity of the injury and may require specific treatment, such as nail bed repair, which impacts coding and reimbursement.
