2025 ICD-10-CM code S20.373A

Other superficial bite of bilateral front wall of thorax, initial encounter.

The 7th character (A, D, or S) should reflect the encounter type: A for initial encounter, D for subsequent encounter, and S for sequela.

Medical necessity is established based on the assessment of the wound, the potential for infection, and the need for treatment to prevent complications.The severity of the wound, the patient's overall health, and the potential for complications like infection will all influence whether treatment is deemed medically necessary.

The clinical responsibility involves the assessment and treatment of the superficial bite wound. This may involve wound cleaning, assessment for infection, tetanus prophylaxis, pain management, and possibly sutures if the wound is deep enough.

IMPORTANT Related codes include those for subsequent encounters (S20.373D) and sequelae (S20.373S) of the same injury.Additional codes may be necessary to specify the type of biting organism (e.g., insect, animal) and to indicate any complications.

In simple words: This code is for a minor bite on both sides of the front of the chest, it's the first time this injury is recorded.

This ICD-10-CM code classifies an initial encounter for other superficial bites affecting both sides of the anterior chest wall.The injury is considered superficial, meaning it does not penetrate deep tissue layers.The code is specifically for the initial encounter; subsequent encounters require different codes (e.g., S20.373D, S20.373S).

Example 1: A patient presents to the emergency department after being bitten on both sides of their chest by an unknown insect. The bite wounds are superficial and do not require sutures. The physician cleans the wounds, applies antiseptic, and provides patient education on wound care., A child is bitten on the front of their chest by a dog during a play.The bite causes superficial abrasions, but there is no significant bleeding or deep tissue damage.The physician assesses the wound, cleans it, and applies a dressing.A tetanus booster is recommended., A patient presents with two superficial bite wounds on the anterior chest wall after a trip to a wooded area, with symptoms of localized swelling and mild itching. The provider evaluates the wounds, administers topical corticosteroid cream and advises them to monitor the bite site for infection.

Complete documentation should include details of the injury, such as location (bilateral anterior chest wall), depth (superficial), the nature of the biting organism (if known), the date and time of the injury, and any treatment provided (wound cleaning, antiseptic application, tetanus prophylaxis, etc.).Photographs or images of the wound may be beneficial.

** If there is a retained foreign body in the wound, an additional code from category Z18.- should be used.

  • Payment Status: Active
  • Specialties:Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, General Practice
  • Place of Service:Office, Emergency Room - Hospital, Urgent Care Facility
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