Burn of third degree of right ankle, initial encounter

This code signifies a severe burn injury affecting the right ankle, characterized by full-thickness tissue destruction extending through all layers of the skin. Such burns typically involve damage to underlying tissues like fat, muscle, or bone, and result in a white, leathery, or charred appearance with no sensation. This specific code is for the initial treatment phase of the injury.

Apply this code when documenting the initial encounter for a patient presenting with a third-degree burn to their right ankle. This includes emergency department visits, initial hospital admissions, or the first visit to a burn clinic for this specific injury. It is appropriate for the acute phase of treatment, including debridement, skin grafting, or other immediate interventions.

• Ensure the documentation clearly specifies "right ankle" and "third degree" burn.
• Verify this is the initial encounter for treatment of this specific burn; subsequent encounters will require a different seventh character.
• Always code the extent of the burn (e.g., T31.-) and the body surface area (BSA) affected, if documented, in addition to the specific burn site.