2025 ICD-10-CM code T34.8
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Deletion Date: N/A Injury - Frostbite with tissue necrosis Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T88) Feed
Frostbite with tissue necrosis of the ankle, foot, and toe(s).
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the specific circumstances of the encounter and the services provided.
Medical necessity is established by the presence of frostbite with demonstrable tissue necrosis, requiring medical intervention (e.g., wound care, debridement, pain management, or hospitalization) to prevent further complications, such as infection or amputation.
The clinical responsibility involves diagnosing the frostbite, assessing the extent of tissue necrosis, providing appropriate treatment (such as wound care, pain management, and supportive care), and monitoring the patient for complications.
In simple words: This code describes frostbite that has caused tissue damage (necrosis) in the ankle, foot, and/or toes.Necrosis means the tissue has died due to the freezing.
This ICD-10-CM code classifies frostbite with tissue necrosis specifically affecting the ankle, foot, and toe(s).It indicates the presence of frostbite resulting in tissue death in these lower extremity locations.Additional codes may be necessary to specify the cause of the injury (from Chapter 20, External causes of morbidity) and any retained foreign body (Z18.-).
Example 1: A patient presents to the emergency department after a night spent outdoors in sub-zero temperatures. Examination reveals severe frostbite with tissue necrosis of the right ankle and foot.The physician documents the extent of the injury and initiates treatment., A hiker is rescued from a snowstorm after several hours of exposure to freezing temperatures.Upon evaluation, the patient exhibits frostbite with tissue necrosis affecting both feet and toes.Surgical debridement is performed, and the patient is admitted for further management., A homeless individual is found unconscious outdoors in extremely cold conditions. Evaluation reveals severe frostbite, including tissue necrosis in the left ankle and foot. The patient is admitted to the hospital for treatment and monitoring. A retained foreign body (ice crystal) is noted which requires additional coding.
Detailed clinical documentation is required, including a thorough description of the affected area(s), assessment of the extent of tissue necrosis (e.g., depth of injury, presence of blisters, ulceration), and any other associated injuries or complications. Documentation should also include details on treatment rendered (e.g., surgical debridement, pain management, antibiotics).
** This code is specific to frostbite with tissue necrosis; codes for frostbite without necrosis would be different.Accurate documentation is crucial for appropriate coding.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Emergency Medicine, Surgery, Podiatry
- Place of Service:Emergency Room - Hospital, Inpatient Hospital, Office, Outpatient Hospital