ICD 10 CM S45.099 | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S45.099 describes a specific type of injury to the axillary artery, which is a major blood vessel responsible for transporting oxygenated blood to the thorax, armpit, and arm, resulting from various causes such as blunt or penetrating trauma from a motor vehicle accident or sports activity, a puncture or gunshot wound, external compression or force, abnormal bending or twisting of the shoulder, or injury during surgery, and is not represented by any other code, however, the provider does not document whether the injury involves the left or right side.

Official Description Of S45.099

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S45.099 as:

When To Use S45.099

The diagnosis described as ICD 10 CM S45.099 pertains to injuries in the axillary artery of an unspecified side. Patients suffering from this injury experience a wide range of symptoms such as pain, swelling, tenderness, numbness and tingling in the affected area. Additionally, patients may experience axillary bruising, weakness, and hypotension or low blood pressure that can lead to decreased blood flow.

One of the hallmark symptoms of this injury is a decreased or absent radial pulse. Patients may also feel a cold sensation in their upper limb along with skin discoloration and hematoma. In severe cases, patients may be unable to move the injured arm, experience bleeding, or blood clot formation. Moreover, pseudoaneurysm could develop.

The diagnosis of ICD 10 CM S45.099 relies on a thorough patient history of trauma and physical examination, to include an evaluation of sensation, reflexes, and vascular assessment including the presence of bruits.

Providers may also conduct laboratory studies such as blood coagulation, platelets, and, if contrast imaging studies are planned, BUN, and creatinine to evaluate kidney function. Furthermore, imaging studies are an essential part of diagnosing this injury. X-rays, ultrasound, angiography, arteriography, duplex doppler scan, MRA, and CTA are all ideal imaging techniques to visualize the extent of the injury.

The treatment options for ICD 10 CM S45.099 injury codes vary depending on the severity of the condition, with observation, anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy, and if indicated, endovascular surgery, being the most commonly employed options. Endovascular surgery is recommended when blood flow is blocked, and there is a risk of limb ischemia. The procedure involves placing a stent or occluding the vessel to improve blood flow and prevent further complications.

In conclusion, ICD 10 CM S45.099 is a diagnosis code for injuries in the axillary artery of an unspecified site. The diagnosis relies on clinical evaluations that include patient history, physical examination, sensory and reflex assessments, and imaging studies. A range of symptoms occurs due to this injury, and treatment options are varied depending on the severity of the condition. Early diagnosis is key to a successful outcome when treating this type of injury.