Unspecified open wound of thyroid gland, initial encounter

This code signifies an open injury to the thyroid gland where the specific nature of the wound (e.g., laceration, puncture) is not documented. It indicates that the skin and underlying tissues covering the thyroid are compromised, exposing the gland to the external environment. This diagnosis is used for the initial treatment phase of such an injury.

Use this code when documentation clearly states an open wound of the thyroid gland but lacks further detail regarding the wound type. This typically occurs in emergency department settings or initial evaluations following trauma. Supporting documentation would include physician notes describing an open wound to the neck region, specifically involving the thyroid, without specifying the wound's characteristics.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly mentions the thyroid gland; do not assume based on neck location alone.
• If the specific type of open wound (e.g., laceration, puncture) is known, use a more specific code from the S11.1- category.
• Remember the "A" seventh character denotes an initial encounter for active treatment of the injury.