Open wound of chest (wall), without mention of complication

This code represents an open injury to the chest wall, such as a cut, laceration, or puncture wound, that does not involve any underlying organ damage or other specified complications. It indicates a breach in the skin and subcutaneous tissue of the chest.

Use this code for superficial open wounds of the chest wall documented as uncomplicated. This typically applies to traumatic injuries where the integrity of the thoracic cavity or internal organs is not compromised. Documentation should explicitly state "open wound of chest" without mention of infection, foreign body, or organ involvement.

• Differentiate from open wounds with complications (e.g., infection, foreign body), which require more specific codes.
• Do not use if there is any mention of pneumothorax, hemothorax, or other internal chest injuries; these require separate, more specific codes.
• Always review documentation for depth of wound and involvement of underlying structures to ensure appropriate code selection.