Laceration with foreign body of left index finger with damage to nail
ICD-10 S61.321 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of laceration with foreign body of left index finger with damage to nail.
S61.321 describes a specific type of injury involving a laceration of the left index finger that includes the presence of a foreign body and damage to the nail. This condition typically arises from traumatic incidents such as cuts from sharp objects, punctures from tools, or accidents involving machinery. The presence of a foreign body complicates the injury, as it may lead to infection or delayed healing if not properly addressed. Damage to the nail can result in pain, swelling, and potential long-term cosmetic issues. Clinically, the management of this injury may involve thorough cleaning of the wound, removal of the foreign body, and possible surgical intervention to repair the nail bed or surrounding tissues. The complexity of treatment can vary based on the extent of the laceration, the type of foreign body, and the overall health of the patient. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate reimbursement and to reflect the severity of the injury in medical records.
Detailed operative notes describing the laceration, foreign body removal, and any repairs performed.
Management of traumatic finger injuries, including fractures and tendon repairs.
Ensure all surgical interventions are documented to support coding.
Comprehensive notes on the mechanism of injury, initial assessment, and treatment provided.
Acute care for lacerations, foreign body removal, and wound management.
Document all assessments and interventions to justify the complexity of the case.
Used for repair of the laceration after foreign body removal.
Operative notes detailing the repair process and materials used.
Orthopedic surgeons should document the extent of the repair.
Accurate coding of S61.321 is crucial for proper reimbursement, reflecting the complexity of the injury, and ensuring appropriate treatment is documented. It helps in tracking injury patterns and improving patient care.
