Open wound of abdominal wall, lateral, without mention of complication

This code signifies a traumatic break in the skin and underlying soft tissues on the side of the abdomen, extending through the full thickness of the skin. It indicates that the wound is exposed to the external environment and does not have associated complications such as infection, foreign body, or delayed healing.

Apply this code for acute, uncomplicated lacerations, punctures, or avulsions affecting the lateral abdominal wall. Documentation should clearly state "open wound," specify the "lateral abdominal wall" as the location, and explicitly or implicitly confirm the absence of complications.

• Ensure documentation specifies "lateral" to differentiate from other abdominal wall regions.
• Do not use if the wound involves an internal organ or extends into the peritoneal cavity.
• Consider additional codes for any associated foreign body, infection, or delayed healing.