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L05.92
ICD-10-CM
Sacral Dimple

Find comprehensive information on sacral dimple diagnosis, including clinical documentation, medical coding (ICD-10), differential diagnosis considerations like spinal dysraphism, and associated symptoms. This resource covers healthcare best practices for evaluating sacral dimples in newborns and infants, along with guidance on when referral to a specialist is necessary. Learn about associated conditions, potential complications, and the importance of thorough physical examination in pediatric patients.

Also known as

Congenital Sacral Dimple
Simple Sacral Dimple

Diagnosis Snapshot

Key Facts
  • Definition : Small indentation, usually above the buttocks crease.
  • Clinical Signs : Typically asymptomatic. May have hair, skin tag, or discoloration.
  • Common Settings : Primary care, pediatric clinics, occasionally neurosurgery.

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to AAPC L05.92 Coding
Q82.2

Congenital malformations of spine

Includes sacral dimple as a localized anomaly.

Q00-Q99

Congenital malformations, deformations

Encompasses various congenital anomalies, including spinal ones.

L00-L99

Diseases of the skin and subcutan

May be relevant if skin changes accompany the dimple.

Code-Specific Guidance

Decision Tree for

Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.

Is the sacral dimple associated with other congenital anomalies?

  • Yes

    Specify the associated anomaly.

  • No

    Is the dimple simple or atypical?

Code Comparison

Related Codes Comparison

When to use each related code

Description
Simple sacral dimple
Deep sacral dimple/pit
Spinal dysraphism

Documentation Best Practices

Documentation Checklist
  • Sacral dimple location, size documented
  • Skin findings: discoloration, hair tuft noted
  • Associated neurologic exam documented
  • Ultrasound or MRI findings if performed
  • ICD-10 code Q82.2 documented

Coding and Audit Risks

Common Risks
  • Unspecified Dimple Location

    Coding sacral dimple without specifying location (e.g., atypical vs typical) can lead to rejected claims or inaccurate quality data. CDI should clarify.

  • Dimple vs. Pit Confusion

    Miscoding a sacral pit as a simple dimple can impact reimbursement. Accurate clinical documentation is crucial for correct code assignment.

  • Associated Anomaly Coding

    Failing to code associated spinal anomalies with sacral dimple if present can lead to underreporting severity and lost revenue. Review for tethered cord, etc.

Mitigation Tips

Best Practices
  • Document location, size, depth for accurate ICD-10 coding (ICD-10-CM Q82.4)
  • Rule out spina bifida occulta with ultrasound if dimple is atypical
  • Thorough skin exam crucial for CDI, capturing associated findings
  • Timely referral to specialist if tethered cord suspected ensures compliance
  • Consistent documentation, standardized terminology improves healthcare data quality

Clinical Decision Support

Checklist
  • Verify location: Base of spine, above gluteal cleft
  • Assess depth: Shallow vs deep, rule out sinus tract
  • Skin findings: Normal color, no hair tuft, no drainage
  • Neuro exam: Normal leg movement and reflexes
  • Consider ultrasound if atypical features present

Reimbursement and Quality Metrics

Impact Summary
  • Sacral dimple reimbursement: Typically low, often bundled with newborn exam. Coding: Q82.5. Impacts coding accuracy for spina bifida occulta differentiation.
  • Sacral dimple quality metrics: Usually not directly impacting quality scores. Accurate documentation crucial for risk management and avoiding unnecessary tests.
  • ICD-10: Q82.5. CPT codes vary. Correct coding impacts hospital revenue cycle and reporting. Crucial for appropriate reimbursement.
  • Sacral dimple diagnosis impacts resource utilization. Over-testing can be costly. Proper documentation and coding minimize unnecessary imaging (ultrasound/MRI).

Streamline Your Medical Coding

Let S10.AI help you select the most accurate ICD-10 codes. Our AI-powered assistant ensures compliance and reduces coding errors.

Quick Tips

Practical Coding Tips
  • Code Q82.5 for sacral dimple
  • Document dimple depth, location
  • Exclude spina bifida if present
  • Consider Pilonidal cyst in DDx
  • Rule out tethered cord syndrome

Documentation Templates

Patient presents with a sacral dimple, also known as a pilonidal dimple, observed in the sacral region.  Examination reveals a small, midline indentation or pit located in the gluteal cleft, superior to the anus.  The skin overlying the dimple appears normal without signs of erythema, drainage, swelling, or tenderness.  No palpable mass or sinus tract is noted.  Neurological examination, including lower extremity motor strength, sensation, and reflexes, is normal.  The dimple is assessed for associated findings, such as hairy patches, skin tags, or hemangiomas, which are not present.  Given the typical presentation and absence of concerning features, this sacral dimple is classified as simple and benign.  Differential diagnoses considered include pilonidal cyst, spinal dysraphism, and tethered cord syndrome.  However, the lack of associated cutaneous stigmata, neurological deficits, and other abnormal findings makes these less likely.  No further imaging or diagnostic testing is indicated at this time.  Patient and family educated on the benign nature of a simple sacral dimple and advised to monitor for any changes, such as redness, swelling, or drainage.  Return visit recommended if any concerning signs or symptoms develop.  Diagnosis: Sacral dimple, simple.  ICD-10 code: Q82.4.  CPT code for evaluation and management (E/M) will be determined based on the complexity of the visit.
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