2025 ICD-10-CM code T33.9
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Deletion Date: N/A Injury - Superficial frostbite Chapter 19: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T88) Feed
Superficial frostbite of other and unspecified sites.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the encounter and the services provided. Consult local payer guidelines for specific modifier requirements.
Medical necessity is established by the presence of frostbite, requiring medical attention for pain management, prevention of complications, and monitoring for the potential for deep tissue damage.
Diagnosis and treatment of frostbite, including assessment of the extent of injury, pain management, and monitoring for complications.
- Chapter 19: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T88)
- T33-T34 (Frostbite)
In simple words: This code is for mild frostbite that only affects the outer layer of skin.It doesn't cause any deep tissue damage or permanent loss of feeling.
This code represents superficial frostbite affecting unspecified or other body sites.Superficial frostbite involves partial-thickness skin damage due to freezing. It's characterized by skin redness, swelling, and pain, but without tissue necrosis or loss of feeling.
Example 1: A patient presents to the emergency department with complaints of numbness and tingling in their toes after being caught in a blizzard. Examination reveals superficial frostbite of the toes.The provider documents the affected area and the degree of injury., A hiker sustains superficial frostbite of the fingers and ears during a mountain climbing expedition. The physician documents the injury and initiates treatment to manage the pain and swelling, and to prevent further complications., A homeless individual is admitted to the hospital with superficial frostbite affecting their face and hands. Medical staff provides care including warming, pain management and monitoring the patient for potential complications like infection.
Detailed description of the affected body area(s), extent of injury (superficial), presence of any blisters or other physical findings, and any associated symptoms (pain, numbness, tingling).Patient history (exposure to cold temperatures).
** This code is for superficial frostbite only.Deep frostbite, with tissue necrosis, requires a code from the T34 range.The seventh character (initial encounter, subsequent encounter, sequela) should be added to this code as needed.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine
- Place of Service:Emergency Room - Hospital, Office, Urgent Care Facility