2025 ICD-10-CM code T69.029
Immersion foot of unspecified foot.
The A initial encounter modifier can be used to specify that the encounter is for the initial treatment of immersion foot. The D subsequent encounter modifier can be used for subsequent treatments. The S sequela modifier is used for the late effects of immersion foot.
Medical necessity for treatment of immersion foot is established by the clinical findings of skin and tissue damage resulting from prolonged exposure to cold and wet conditions.The need for pain management, wound care, and prevention of infection justifies the medical services provided.
The clinician should document the duration and severity of the exposure, the affected foot, and any associated symptoms such as numbness, tingling, pain, swelling, discoloration, blisters, or ulcers. They should also assess for any signs of infection or other complications. Treatment typically involves gradually rewarming the feet, pain management, wound care if present, and preventing infection.
- Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T88)
- Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (T07-T88)Other and unspecified effects of external causes (T66-T78)
In simple words: Immersion foot, commonly known as trench foot, occurs when your feet are exposed to cold and wet conditions for a long time.
Immersion foot, unspecified foot. Also known as trench foot, it is caused by prolonged exposure to cold and wet conditions. This is a non-freezing cold injury.
Example 1: A homeless individual presents with swollen, pale feet after sleeping outside in wet and cold conditions for several days. The patient reports numbness and pain in both feet. The diagnosis of immersion foot, unspecified foot (T69.029) is made., A hiker develops painful and blistered feet after trekking through cold streams for an extended period. Upon examination, the right foot is more severely affected than the left. The diagnosis is immersion foot, unspecified foot (T69.029)., A disaster relief worker develops immersion foot after working in flooded areas for a week. Both feet are affected, but the extent of injury is not specified. The diagnosis is immersion foot, unspecified foot (T69.029).
Documentation should include the duration and circumstances of the cold and wet exposure, detailed examination findings of the affected foot (including laterality if known), and the presence of any associated symptoms or complications.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Podiatry, Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine.
- Place of Service:Office, Inpatient Hospital, Emergency Room - Hospital, Homeless Shelter, Outreach Site/Street, Military Treatment Facility.