2025 ICD-10-CM code T34.011
Frostbite with tissue necrosis of the right ear.
Use the appropriate 7th character to indicate the encounter type: A (initial encounter), D (subsequent encounter), or S (sequela).
Medical necessity for using this code is established by the diagnosis of frostbite with tissue necrosis of the right ear due to exposure to cold. The documentation should support the severity of the condition, requiring medical intervention.
The clinician is responsible for assessing the extent of the frostbite, determining the appropriate treatment, and monitoring the healing process. This includes evaluating the degree of tissue damage, providing wound care, pain management, and possibly referral to specialists if necessary.
In simple words: This code signifies frostbite that has caused tissue death (necrosis) in the right ear.
Frostbite with tissue necrosis of the right ear.
Example 1: A patient presents to the emergency room after prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures with numbness and discoloration of the right ear. Upon examination, the physician diagnoses frostbite with tissue necrosis of the right ear., A homeless individual is brought to the hospital during a winter storm. They have severe frostbite on their extremities, including the right ear, which shows signs of tissue necrosis., A mountaineer descends from a high-altitude climb with frostbite on their fingers, toes, and right ear, with blackened tissue indicating necrosis due to prolonged exposure to extreme cold.
Documentation should include the history of exposure to cold temperatures, description of the affected area (right ear), the degree of frostbite, presence of tissue necrosis, and associated symptoms. Any treatment provided, such as wound care or pain management, should also be documented.
- Specialties:Emergency Medicine, Primary Care, Dermatology, Plastic Surgery
- Place of Service:Emergency Room - Hospital, Office, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital