In simple words: This code describes a broken bone in the skull or face that is not one of the specific types already listed in the ICD-10 coding system, and the doctor hasn't specified whether it's on the right or left side.

This ICD-10-CM code classifies fractures affecting unspecified skull and facial bones, excluding those specifically listed elsewhere.It encompasses fractures not categorized as open or closed, and requires additional coding for associated intracranial injuries (S06.-) and retained foreign bodies (Z18.-).The unspecified side necessitates further clinical documentation to specify right or left side involvement.

Example 1: A patient presents after a motor vehicle accident with a facial fracture. Imaging reveals a fracture of the zygomatic arch. The physician codes S02.80,since the specific type of facial fracture is not listed in more specific codes., A patient falls and sustains a fracture of an unspecified skull bone. Imaging studies demonstrate a linear fracture of the parietal bone. The correct code is S02.80 because the location is unspecified., A patient presents to the emergency department with a complex fracture involving multiple skull and facial bones.After surgical intervention, a detailed assessment is conducted and documented with imaging studies (CT scan) to provide the specific fractured bones and specify laterality. The initial diagnosis would be S02.80, but the detailed report might change the assigned code once the fractured bones are correctly specified.

Detailed clinical history, physical examination findings, imaging reports (X-rays, CT scans), operative reports (if applicable), and any other relevant documentation supporting the diagnosis are required.Specify the affected side if possible.

** This code is very broad.Accurate coding requires detailed clinical documentation that specifies the affected bone(s) and side whenever possible to select a more specific code.