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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS11.015

S11.015

Billable

Open bite of larynx

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S11.015 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of open bite of larynx.

Key Diagnostic Point:

An open bite of the larynx refers to a penetrating injury that disrupts the integrity of the laryngeal tissue, often resulting from trauma such as a bite from an animal or human, or from an object that causes a laceration. This injury can lead to significant complications, including airway obstruction, hemorrhage, and potential infection. The larynx plays a crucial role in respiration, phonation, and protecting the airway during swallowing, making injuries in this area particularly concerning. Clinical presentation may include hoarseness, stridor, difficulty breathing, and visible lacerations or swelling in the neck region. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough physical examination, laryngoscopy, and imaging studies to assess the extent of the injury. Management may require surgical intervention to repair the larynx, control bleeding, and ensure airway patency. Prompt recognition and treatment are essential to prevent serious complications such as aspiration pneumonia or long-term voice changes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of anatomical structures of the larynx.
  • Differentiation from other types of laryngeal injuries.
  • Potential for associated injuries requiring additional coding.
  • Need for precise documentation of the mechanism of injury.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury.
  • Failure to specify the type of bite (human vs. animal).
  • Misclassification of the injury severity.
  • Lack of supporting clinical findings in the medical record.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include a detailed account of the injury mechanism, initial assessment findings, and any immediate interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Trauma cases involving animal bites or human altercations leading to laryngeal injury.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of airway management protocols and potential need for intubation.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports must detail the surgical approach, repair techniques used, and any complications encountered during the procedure.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical repair of laryngeal injuries following trauma.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should reflect the complexity of the repair and any reconstructive techniques employed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S11.015 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code accurately reflects the specific type of injury and its severity
  • Document the mechanism of injury and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S11.015 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

31505CPT Code

Laryngoscopy, flexible, diagnostic

Clinical Scenario

Used to evaluate the extent of laryngeal injury.

Documentation Requirements

Document findings from the laryngoscopy and any interventions performed.

Specialty Considerations

Emergency medicine and ENT specialists should ensure thorough documentation of the procedure.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of laryngeal injuries, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S11.015 provides a clear distinction for open bites, which was less specific in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of laryngeal injuries, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S11.015 provides a clear distinction for open bites, which was less specific in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S11.015 provides a clear distinction for open bites, which was less specific in ICD-9.

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 primary concern with an open bite of the larynx?

The primary concern is airway compromise, which can lead to respiratory distress and requires immediate medical attention.