Skin Tear ICD-10-CM Codes

What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Skin Tear

Skin tears are common injuries characterized by the separation of the epidermis and dermis layers of the skin, often caused by friction or trauma. Proper coding of skin tears is crucial for accurate documentation, billing, and healthcare management. Here are several commonly used Skin Tears ICD Codes, along with their clinical descriptions:

L08.9 (Local infection of skin and subcutaneous tissue, unspecified)

This code is used when a skin tear leads to a local infection of the skin and underlying subcutaneous tissue without specifying the exact cause or location of the infection.

S01.119A (Open wound of unspecified eyelid and periocular area, without complications)

This code represents a skin tear in the eyelid or periocular area without complications. It is typically used when a superficial tear in these regions, such as from accidental trauma or rubbing.

S01.119D (Open wound of unspecified eyelid and periocular area, subsequent encounter)

This code indicates a subsequent encounter for a previously documented skin tear in the eyelid or periocular area. It is used for ongoing care and management of the wound.

S01.129A (Open wound of other and unspecified parts of the head, without complications)

This code covers skin tears in other head parts without complications, not including the eyelid or periocular area. It may include tears on the scalp, forehead, or other regions.

S01.129D (Open wound of other and unspecified parts of head, subsequent encounter)

Similar to the previous code, this one denotes subsequent encounters for ongoing care and management of skin tears in other areas of the head.

S41.119A (Open wound of unspecified forearm, without complications)

This code represents a skin tear on the forearm without complications. It is typically used when a superficial tear is in this area, often caused by accidents or falls.

S41.119D (Open wound of unspecified forearm, subsequent encounter)

This code indicates a subsequent encounter for a previously documented skin tear on the forearm. It is used for ongoing care and management of the wound.

S41.119S (Open wound of unspecified forearm, sequela)

This code is used when lingering sequelae or complications result from a previous skin tear on the forearm.

S91.001A (Open wound of right ankle, initial encounter)

This code represents an initial encounter for an open wound on the right ankle, such as a skin tear. It is used when a tear occurs in this specific location.

S91.001D (Open wound of right ankle, subsequent encounter)

Similar to the previous code, this one denotes subsequent encounters for ongoing care and management of a previously documented skin tear on the right ankle.

Which Skin Tear ICD codes are Billable: 

Here's a breakdown of the commonly used skin tear ICD-10 codes and whether they are billable or not, along with a brief explanation for each code:

L08.9 (Local infection of skin and subcutaneous tissue, unspecified):

Yes, billable. This code indicates a billable diagnosis of a skin tear with a localized infection that requires medical attention and treatment.

S01.119A (Open wound of unspecified eyelid and periocular area, without complications):

Yes, billable. This code represents a billable diagnosis for a skin tear in the eyelid or periocular area, which may require medical intervention and follow-up care.

S01.119D (Open wound of unspecified eyelid and periocular area, subsequent encounter):

Yes, billable. This code indicates subsequent encounters for ongoing management and treatment of a previously documented skin tear in the eyelid or periocular area.

S01.129A (Open wound of other and unspecified parts of head, without complications):

Yes, billable. This code covers skin tears in other parts of the head, excluding the eyelid and periocular area, and signifies the need for medical attention and treatment.

S01.129D (Open wound of other and unspecified parts of head, subsequent encounter):

Yes, billable. This code denotes subsequent encounters for ongoing management and treatment of a previously documented skin tear in other head areas.

S41.119A (Open wound of unspecified forearm, without complications): Yes, billable. This code represents a billable diagnosis for a skin tear on the forearm, indicating the need for medical intervention and treatment.

S41.119D (Open wound of unspecified forearm, subsequent encounter):

Yes, billable. This code indicates subsequent encounters for ongoing management and treatment of a previously documented skin tear on the forearm.

S41.119S (Open wound of unspecified forearm, sequela):

No, not billable. This code represents a sequela or complication resulting from a previous skin tear on the forearm and is used for tracking purposes rather than billing.

S91.001A (Open wound of right ankle, initial encounter):

Yes, billable. This code signifies an initial encounter for a skin tear on the right ankle, requiring medical attention and treatment.

S91.001D (Open wound of right ankle, subsequent encounter):

Yes, billable. This code denotes subsequent encounters for ongoing management and treatment of a previously documented skin tear on the right ankle.

Clinical Information

• Skin tears are acute wounds characterized by the separation of the epidermis and dermis layers of the skin.
• They commonly occur in older adults, particularly those with fragile or thin skin.
• Skin tears are often caused by trauma or friction, such as bumping into objects, accidental falls, or simple activities like removing adhesive bandages.
• Individuals with compromised skin integrity, such as those with chronic conditions or taking certain medications, may be more susceptible to skin tears.
• Skin tears are typically categorized into three types: Type 1 (no tissue loss), Type 2 (partial flap loss), and Type 3 (complete flap loss).
• Clinical assessment of a skin tear involves evaluating the size, depth, location, surrounding tissue, and the presence of any associated complications, such as infection or hematoma.
• Proper cleaning and dressing of skin tears are crucial to prevent infection and promote healing.
• Treatment may involve gentle wound cleansing, applying appropriate dressings (non-adherent or foam dressings), and securing the wound edges with adhesive strips or skin closure techniques.
• Pain management and patient education on wound care and prevention of future skin tears are essential aspects of clinical management.
• Regular follow-up visits are necessary to monitor the healing progress, assess for any complications, and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

Synonyms Include:

• Lacerations
• Rips
• Cuts
• Incisions
• Wounds
• Abrasions
• Gashes
• Splits
• Torn skin
• Flayed skin