Guidelines › Coding of injuries
Coding of injuries
Official text from the FY2027 ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting. The wording is quoted exactly.
Guidelines I.C.19.b
“When coding injuries, assign separate codes for each injury unless a combination code is provided, in which case the combination code is assigned.”
“The code for the most serious injury, as determined by the provider and the focus of treatment, is sequenced first.”
“Superficial injuries such as abrasions or contusions are not coded when associated with more severe injuries of the same site.”
“Injury codes from Chapter 19 should not be assigned for injuries that occur during, or as a result of, a medical intervention. Assign the appropriate complication code(s).”
Where this applies
S00–S99T00–T14
The Guidelines are the authority for assigning codes, and following them is required under HIPAA. This page quotes them for convenience and is not a substitute for the official document. See the Terms and Disclaimer.