ICD 10 CM S27.808 | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S27.808 describes a unique medical condition characterized by the occurrence of damage or tearing of the muscular membrane that separates the lungs from the stomach area, resulting from blunt or penetrating trauma to the trunk or abdomen, such as those commonly experienced in motor vehicle accidents, and is used by healthcare providers to identify a specific type of injury of the diaphragm that is not named under any other codes in this category.

Official Description Of S27.808

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S27.808 as:

When To Use S27.808

The diagnosis described by the ICD-10-CM code S27.808 refers to an injury of the diaphragm, a muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdomen. This type of injury can lead to various symptoms, such as pain, coughing, difficulty breathing, and decreased oxygen saturation. Other signs may include an increased heart rate and low blood pressure or hypotension, bowel sounds audible in the chest in cases of rupture, tenderness of the abdomen and epigastric area, and restricted chest expansion on the affected side.

Medical providers typically diagnose a diaphragmatic injury by conducting a thorough assessment of the patient’s medical history and performing a physical examination. In addition, various imaging techniques may be employed, such as X-ray, computed tomography of the chest and abdomen, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, laparoscopic examination, and gastrointestinal contrast studies.

Once a diaphragmatic injury has been confirmed, treatment options will be considered. Depending on the severity of the injury, supplemental oxygen may be necessary, along with medications such as analgesics to help alleviate pain. In addition, deep breathing exercises may be recommended to help strengthen the diaphragm and improve lung function.

For some patients, physical therapy may be required to regain muscle strength and improve function. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the injured site or chest tube insertion to remove fluid or blood from the chest cavity.

It is important to note that diaphragmatic injuries can be caused by a variety of factors, including blunt trauma, motor vehicle accidents, penetrating trauma, and even medical procedures, such as a thoracentesis, where a needle is inserted through the chest wall to withdraw fluid from the pleural space.

Furthermore, it is important for medical coders to document any and all relevant information related to a diaphragmatic injury, including the cause, severity, location, and treatment administered. Accurate and thorough documentation is essential to ensure proper reimbursement and adequate patient care.

In conclusion, S27.808 is a diagnosis code that denotes an injury of the diaphragm, which may result in various symptoms and require a comprehensive treatment plan. With proper diagnosis and treatment, patients can recover from this type of injury and resume their normal daily activities.