Burns of 50-59% of body surface w 10-19% third degree burns

This code signifies a severe burn injury affecting over half of the patient's total body surface area (TBSA), specifically between 50% and 59%. Within this extensive burn, a significant portion, 10% to 19%, is classified as full-thickness (third-degree) burns, indicating damage through all layers of the skin. The remaining burn areas would be partial-thickness (first or second-degree).

This code is appropriate for patients presenting with extensive burn injuries where the total body surface area involved is between 50% and 59%, and a precise assessment confirms that 10% to 19% of that total is third-degree. This typically applies to critical burn cases requiring specialized care, often in a burn unit. It should be assigned after a thorough evaluation of the burn depth and extent.

• Ensure accurate documentation of both total body surface area burned and the percentage of third-degree burns.
• Do not use this code if the percentage of third-degree burns falls outside the 10-19% range, even if the total TBSA is within 50-59%.
• Always review the entire burn chart and physician documentation for precise percentages to avoid miscoding.