Other superfic bite of bilateral front wall of thorax, subs

Other superficial bite of bilateral front wall of thorax, subsequent encounter

📋Clinical Description

This code signifies a superficial bite wound affecting both sides of the anterior chest wall, such as the sternum, ribs, or intercostal spaces. The injury is limited to the skin and subcutaneous tissue, without involving deeper structures like muscle or bone. This specific code is used for follow-up care of such an injury.

🎯When to Use

Apply this code when a patient presents for subsequent treatment, follow-up, or healing assessment of a superficial bite wound to both sides of the front of the chest. This includes scenarios like wound checks, dressing changes, or evaluation of infection after the initial encounter. It is appropriate for bites from any animal or human.

💡Coding Tips

Ensure documentation clearly specifies "bilateral" involvement of the front wall of the thorax.
Confirm the encounter is for follow-up care, not the initial treatment of the bite.
Always code an external cause code (e.g., W53.01XA for dog bite) in conjunction with this diagnosis.

AI-generated reference — verify against official guidelines

Code Hierarchy

▲S20.373Other superficial bite of bilateral front wall of thorax

S20.373D(current)

Same Category

S20Superficial injury of thorax S20.0Contusion of breast S20.00Contusion of breast, unspecified breast S20.00XAContusion of breast, unspecified breast, initial encounter S20.00XDContusion of breast, unspecified breast, subs encntr S20.00XSContusion of breast, unspecified breast, sequela