2025 ICD-10-CM code S06.1X
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Injury - Traumatic cerebral edema Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T88) Feed
Traumatic cerebral edema is the swelling of the brain due to trauma, affecting brain function and potentially consciousness.
Modifiers may be applied depending on the specific circumstances of service delivery. Consult the appropriate modifier guidelines.
Medical necessity for treatment of traumatic cerebral edema is established by the presence of symptoms (altered mental status, headache, vomiting, seizures) and confirmed by imaging studies showing cerebral edema.The severity of the edema and the patient's clinical presentation will determine the level of intervention necessary. The extent of the cerebral edema in relation to functional impairment is a key determinant of medical necessity.
Diagnosis and treatment of traumatic cerebral edema involves a multidisciplinary approach.The primary physician assesses the patient's condition and orders investigations. Neurologists may be involved for neurological assessment and management of complications such as seizures or increased intracranial pressure. Neurosurgeons may be consulted if surgical intervention is required.Imaging specialists interpret the results of imaging studies (CT, MRI).Other specialists might be involved depending on co-morbidities and complications.
- Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T88)
- Injuries to the head (S00-S09)
In simple words: Traumatic cerebral edema is brain swelling from an injury like a fall or car accident.This swelling can cause problems with consciousness, awareness, and how you respond to things.Doctors use imaging tests like MRI or CT scans to check the damage and may prescribe medications or surgery.
Traumatic cerebral edema refers to the accumulation of fluid within the brain's cellular spaces following trauma (e.g., falls, motor vehicle accidents, head blows). This fluid accumulation impacts brain function, potentially altering consciousness, awareness, and responsiveness to stimuli.Symptoms can include unconsciousness, increased intracranial pressure (ICP), headache, seizures, nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision. Diagnosis involves a thorough patient history, physical examination (assessing responsiveness and pupil dilation), Glasgow Coma Scale scoring, and imaging studies such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) angiography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MR) angiography to assess damage and monitor progression. Electroencephalography (EEG) evaluates brain activity. Treatment options include medications (corticosteroids, analgesics, antiseizure drugs), airway and circulatory stabilization, head/neck immobilization, addressing associated issues, and potentially surgery (ICP monitoring or ICP relief).
Example 1: A patient presents to the emergency room following a motor vehicle accident with a loss of consciousness.A CT scan reveals traumatic cerebral edema. The patient undergoes neurosurgical intervention to decrease intracranial pressure, and is admitted to the ICU for monitoring., A patient falls and hits their head, losing consciousness briefly.They are evaluated with a Glasgow Coma Scale, showing mild impairment. An MRI reveals mild cerebral edema.The patient is admitted for observation., A patient sustains a traumatic brain injury during a sporting event. They experience headaches, nausea, and vomiting. An MRI shows significant cerebral edema.The patient requires intensive care and treatment with corticosteroids.
Complete medical history, physical exam findings (including Glasgow Coma Scale score, neurological examination), imaging reports (CT scan, MRI), EEG results, and treatment documentation (medications administered, surgical procedures, response to treatment).
** The severity of traumatic cerebral edema can range from mild to severe, influencing treatment decisions.Close monitoring is crucial in cases of severe edema.Prognosis is dependent upon the severity and extent of the injury.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Neurology, Neurosurgery, Emergency Medicine, Radiology
- Place of Service:Emergency Room - Hospital, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Office