Open wound of toe(s), with tendon involvement

This code signifies a traumatic injury to one or more toes where the skin and underlying soft tissues are broken, and there is documented damage to the tendon(s). This includes lacerations, punctures, or avulsions that extend deep enough to involve the extensor or flexor tendons of the toe(s).

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates an open wound of the toe(s) with explicit mention of tendon involvement, such as a lacerated tendon or partial/complete tendon transection. This is typically seen in acute trauma cases, often requiring surgical repair.

• Ensure the physician's documentation specifically states "tendon involvement" or describes damage to a tendon. Without this, a less specific open wound code should be used.
• Do not use this code for superficial open wounds or those involving only skin and subcutaneous tissue without tendon damage.
• Always code the external cause of injury (E-code) in addition to this diagnosis code to provide a complete picture of the incident.