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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS51.852

S51.852

Billable

Open bite of left forearm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S51.852 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of open bite of left forearm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

An open bite of the left forearm refers to a penetrating injury that disrupts the skin and underlying tissues, exposing the underlying structures such as muscles, tendons, and possibly bones. This type of injury can occur due to various mechanisms, including animal bites, human bites, or sharp objects. The forearm consists of two long bones, the radius and ulna, which can be affected in conjunction with the open bite. Complications may arise, including infection, compartment syndrome, and damage to neurovascular structures. Treatment often involves thorough wound cleaning, possible surgical intervention to repair damaged tissues, and stabilization of any associated fractures. In cases where the radius or ulna is fractured, orthopedic fixation procedures may be necessary to ensure proper healing and restore function. The management of open bites requires careful assessment and documentation to address the potential for complications and the need for follow-up care.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between open and closed injuries
  • Identifying associated fractures or complications
  • Documenting the mechanism of injury accurately
  • Understanding the implications of compartment syndrome

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to document associated fractures or complications
  • Misclassification of the injury type (open vs. closed)
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for wound care

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes, imaging studies, and follow-up assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of fractures associated with open bites, surgical debridement, and fixation procedures.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of any orthopedic procedures performed in conjunction with the open bite treatment.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive documentation of the initial assessment, treatment provided, and any referrals made.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial evaluation and management of open bites, including wound care and assessment for fractures.

Billing Considerations

Document the mechanism of injury and any immediate complications to support coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S51.852 When
  • According to ICD
  • CM guidelines, S51
  • 852 should be used when documenting an open bite specifically affecting the left forearm
  • It is important to include any associated injuries or complications in the documentation to ensure accurate coding

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S51.852 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

12001CPT Code

Simple repair of superficial wounds

Clinical Scenario

Used for initial treatment of the open bite wound.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size and depth of the wound, and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons may need to document additional details if fractures are involved.

20680CPT Code

Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection into a major joint or bursa

Clinical Scenario

May be used if joint involvement is suspected.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Emergency physicians should document the rationale for joint aspiration.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries, including open bites, which helps in better tracking of injury types and associated complications. This specificity aids in improved patient care and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries, including open bites, which helps in better tracking of injury types and associated complications. This specificity aids in improved patient care and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries, including open bites, which helps in better tracking of injury types and associated complications. This specificity aids in improved patient care and resource allocation.

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 and exposure of underlying tissues, while a closed bite does not penetrate the skin.

When should I use S51.852?

Use S51.852 when documenting an open bite specifically affecting the left forearm, ensuring to include any associated injuries.