2025 ICD-10-CM code T33.0
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Injury - Superficial frostbite Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T88) Feed
Superficial frostbite of the head.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the encounter and the services provided.
Medical necessity is established based on the presence of frostbite requiring medical evaluation and treatment.Documentation must support the diagnosis and severity.
Diagnosis and treatment of frostbite, including assessment of the extent of injury, pain management, and monitoring for complications.
In simple words: This code is for mild frostbite on the head, where only the top layer of skin is affected.It's like a sunburn from the cold, causing redness and maybe some swelling or blisters.
This code signifies superficial frostbite affecting the head region.Superficial frostbite involves damage to the skin's outer layers, characterized by redness, swelling, and potential blistering.It does not involve deep tissue damage or necrosis.
Example 1: A patient presents to the emergency department with complaints of numbness and tingling in the head after prolonged exposure to sub-zero temperatures. Physical examination reveals erythema and edema on the scalp and ears, consistent with superficial frostbite.Code T33.0 is assigned., A hiker is rescued from a snowstorm with mild frostnip on their ears and forehead. The frostbite is superficial and resolves without complications.Code T33.0 is appropriate., A patient is brought to the clinic after being found unconscious in a snowdrift. They have superficial frostbite of the forehead and ears along with hypothermia. Code T33.0 is used along with the appropriate code for hypothermia (T68 or T69.-).
Detailed history of exposure to cold temperatures, including duration and environmental conditions. Physical examination documenting the location, extent (superficial vs. deep), and severity of frostbite.Photographs might be helpful.
** The 7th character codes (A, D, S) are crucial to specify the encounter status.Always consider the potential for secondary injuries, complications, and the need for additional coding to reflect the full clinical picture.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine
- Place of Service:Office, Emergency Room - Hospital, Urgent Care Facility