Burns of 80-89% of body surface w 10-19% third degree burns

This diagnosis code signifies a severe burn injury affecting a large portion of the body, specifically between 80% and 89% of the total body surface area (TBSA). Within this extensive burn, a significant component, 10% to 19% of the TBSA, is characterized by full-thickness (third-degree) burns. This indicates deep tissue damage requiring specialized and intensive medical intervention.

This code is appropriate for patients presenting with extensive burn injuries where the "Rule of Nines" or Lund-Browder chart calculations confirm 80-89% TBSA involvement. It is specifically used when the physician documentation clearly specifies that 10-19% of that total burn area is classified as third-degree. This code is typically assigned in acute care settings for initial treatment of life-threatening burn injuries.

• Ensure physician documentation explicitly states both the 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 body surface area is correct.
• Always sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it represents the reason for the encounter, followed by codes for specific burn sites and any associated complications.