Open bite of nose, initial encounter

This code signifies a traumatic injury to the nose where the skin and underlying tissues are broken, exposing deeper structures. It specifically refers to an open wound of the nasal region, indicating a breach in the integrity of the skin. This injury is typically caused by direct trauma.

Apply this code for a patient presenting with a fresh, open wound to the nose, such as a laceration or avulsion, that occurred recently. Documentation should clearly describe an open injury to the nose and specify that this is the initial treatment for the wound. This code is appropriate for emergency department visits or initial clinic evaluations of such injuries.

• Ensure documentation specifies "open wound" and the anatomical site as the "nose."
• Verify that the encounter is indeed the "initial encounter" for this specific injury. Subsequent care would require a different seventh character.
• Distinguish from superficial abrasions or contusions of the nose, which are coded differently.