2025 ICD-10-CM code T79.A
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Deletion Date: N/A Injury - Certain early complications of trauma Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T88) Feed
Traumatic compartment syndrome. This excludes fibromyalgia, nontraumatic compartment syndrome, and traumatic ischemic infarction of muscle.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of service provision (e.g., bilateral procedures, multiple surgical sites). Consult the appropriate coding guidelines for more information.
Medical necessity for treatment of traumatic compartment syndrome is established by the presence of clinical signs and symptoms, confirmed by objective measurements (e.g., compartment pressure).The condition is life-threatening if left untreated, requiring prompt intervention to preserve limb viability and function.
Diagnosis and management of traumatic compartment syndrome, including assessment of symptoms, physical examination, diagnostic testing (e.g., compartment pressure measurement), and prompt surgical intervention if necessary (fasciotomy). Post-operative care and monitoring for complications are also part of the clinical responsibility.
- Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T88)
- T79-T79.A9XS (Certain early complications of trauma)
In simple words: Traumatic compartment syndrome happens when pressure builds up inside a muscle group after an injury, cutting off blood flow. This can damage muscles and needs urgent medical care to prevent permanent harm.
Traumatic compartment syndrome is a serious condition characterized by increased pressure within a muscle compartment, compromising blood supply to the tissues.This is typically caused by trauma, resulting in swelling and impaired circulation.It requires prompt medical attention to prevent permanent muscle damage or loss of limb function.This code excludes fibromyalgia (M79.7), nontraumatic compartment syndrome (M79.A-), and traumatic ischemic infarction of muscle (T79.6).
Example 1: A patient presents to the emergency department after a motorcycle accident with severe leg pain and swelling.Physical exam reveals tense muscles and decreased pulses. Compartment pressure measurements confirm traumatic compartment syndrome, necessitating immediate fasciotomy., A patient sustains a crush injury to their forearm during a work-related accident.Swelling and severe pain develop, leading to a diagnosis of traumatic compartment syndrome. Surgical decompression is performed to alleviate pressure and restore blood flow., A child falls from a height and suffers a fracture along with significant soft tissue swelling in the lower leg.The swelling progresses rapidly, leading to a diagnosis of compartment syndrome.The child requires surgical intervention and subsequent rehabilitation.
Detailed history of the traumatic event, physical examination findings (including compartment pressure measurements), imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, CT scans), operative reports (if applicable), and post-operative progress notes.Documentation of any complications should also be included.
** This code is used to describe traumatic compartment syndrome, a condition requiring urgent attention due to the potential for severe complications.Accurate documentation is crucial for proper coding and reimbursement.Always consult the latest ICD-10-CM coding guidelines for the most up-to-date information.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: The application of a technical component (TC) modifier depends on the services provided and the type of facility.Consult the appropriate coding guidelines for clarification.
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Trauma Surgery, Emergency Medicine
- Place of Service:Emergency Room - Hospital, Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center, Office