Burn of third degree of unsp toe(s) (nail), init encntr

This code signifies a full-thickness burn affecting an unspecified toe or toes, including the nail, where the injury has penetrated all layers of the skin and potentially underlying tissue. Such burns are characterized by a leathery, waxy, or charred appearance, and often result in nerve damage, leading to a lack of sensation in the affected area.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a third-degree burn to a toe, without specifying which toe (e.g., "third-degree burn to left toe"). This code is appropriate for the initial treatment of such an injury, including emergency room visits, initial hospital admissions, or the first encounter for definitive care.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "third-degree" and "unspecified toe(s)" for accurate assignment.
• Verify that this is the patient's first encounter for this specific burn injury; subsequent encounters will require a different seventh character.
• If the specific toe (e.g., great toe, lesser toe) is documented, a more specific code should be used instead.