Open wound of thyroid gland, complicated

This code signifies an open injury to the thyroid gland that involves complications such as infection, delayed healing, or foreign body retention. It indicates a direct traumatic insult to the thyroid, resulting in a break in the skin and underlying tissue, with an adverse factor impacting recovery.

Apply this code when documentation specifies an open wound of the thyroid gland accompanied by a complicating factor. This includes lacerations, punctures, or avulsions of the thyroid that are infected, show signs of necrosis, or have a retained foreign object. Supporting documentation should clearly describe both the open wound and the specific complication.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "complicated" or describes a specific complication (e.g., infection, foreign body) in relation to the thyroid wound.
• Do not use for simple open wounds without documented complications; a different code would apply.
• Consider sequencing this code after any acute traumatic injury codes if the thyroid wound is a direct result of the trauma.