Find information on left index finger laceration diagnosis, including clinical documentation, ICD-10 codes (S21.1, S21.10, S21.11, S21.19), CPT codes for repair, treatment options, and aftercare. Learn about proper wound care, suture techniques, and potential complications for left index finger lacerations. Resources for healthcare professionals, including coding guidelines and best practices for accurate medical recordkeeping.
Also known as
Open wound of finger(s) without damage to nail
Cuts and open wounds of the finger excluding the nail.
Open wound of finger(s) with damage to nail
Lacerations and open wounds of the finger involving the nail.
Other injuries of fingers without damage to nail
Unspecified finger injuries excluding nail damage.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the laceration open?
Yes
Involving nail bed?
No
Coding not applicable for a closed injury. Consider contusion codes (S60).
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Left Index Finger Laceration |
| Left Index Finger Open Wound |
| Left Index Finger Amputation |
Coding lacks laterality (left vs. right), leading to inaccurate billing and potential claim denials. Affects data integrity for quality reporting.
Missing documentation of laceration depth (e.g., full-thickness, superficial) and finger location (e.g., distal, proximal) impacts code selection and reimbursement.
Unclear documentation whether the laceration required simple cleaning/dressing or complex repair (sutures, staples) leads to incorrect coding and potential compliance issues.
Q: What is the best approach for evaluating a deep left index finger laceration with suspected tendon or nerve involvement in the emergency department?
A: Evaluating a deep left index finger laceration with suspected tendon or nerve involvement requires a systematic approach. Begin with a thorough history, including mechanism of injury and hand dominance. Perform a focused physical exam assessing for sensory deficits using two-point discrimination, and motor function by testing flexion and extension of the finger at the metacarpophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal, and distal interphalangeal joints. Assess the integrity of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) and flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) tendons, as well as the digital nerves. If active movement is limited or absent, or if sensory loss is present, prompt surgical exploration and repair are often indicated. Plain radiographs should be obtained to assess for associated fractures or foreign bodies. Explore how proper wound management and splinting techniques can optimize patient outcomes. Consider implementing standardized assessment protocols for finger lacerations in your emergency department.
Q: How do I differentiate between partial and complete tendon laceration in a left index finger injury and what are the appropriate management strategies for each?
A: Differentiating between partial and complete tendon lacerations in a left index finger injury can be challenging. A partial laceration may present with weakened finger flexion or extension, but some active movement is usually preserved. A complete laceration will result in the inability to actively flex or extend the affected joint. Careful examination of the wound, including exploration within a sterile environment, may reveal the extent of tendon injury. High-resolution ultrasound can also be a valuable tool in assessing tendon integrity. Partial tendon lacerations may be managed conservatively with splinting and early range of motion exercises. However, complete tendon lacerations typically require surgical intervention for optimal functional recovery. Learn more about the latest advancements in tendon repair techniques and post-operative rehabilitation protocols.
Patient presents with a laceration to the left index finger. The onset of injury was (time of injury) today, mechanism of injury described as (detailed mechanism of injury, e.g., accidental cut with a kitchen knife while preparing food). Location of laceration is on the (volar, dorsal, lateral, medial) aspect of the left index finger, at the level of the (distal, middle, proximal) phalanx. The wound measures (length) x (width) x (depth) cm. Wound edges are (sharp, jagged, irregular) and (approximated, gaping). Bleeding at presentation was (minimal, moderate, profuse) and is currently (controlled, ongoing). Neurovascular assessment of the left index finger reveals (intact, diminished, absent) sensation to light touch and two-point discrimination, and (strong, weak, absent) radial and ulnar pulses. Capillary refill is (less than, greater than) 2 seconds. Tendon function appears (intact, impaired) with active range of motion demonstrating (full, limited, no) flexion and extension. Surrounding skin is (warm, cool), (dry, moist), and (normal color, erythematous, pale, cyanotic). No signs of infection noted at this time. Diagnosis: Left index finger laceration. Treatment plan includes (wound irrigation with normal saline, debridement of devitalized tissue, closure with sutures, steri-strips, or adhesive). Tetanus status was updated. Patient tolerated the procedure well. Post-procedure instructions provided regarding wound care, pain management, signs and symptoms of infection, and follow-up care. Patient education included information on proper hand hygiene, activity restrictions, and return to work or school guidelines. Follow-up appointment scheduled in (number) days.