ICD 10 CM S61.349D | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S61.349D describes a specific medical condition characterized by a puncture wound caused by a sharp object, such as needles, glass, nails, or wood splinters, that creates a hole in the skin and nail of an unspecified finger, with retention of a foreign object, and is typically the result of an accidental injury.

Official Description Of S61.349D

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S61.349D as:

When To Use S61.349D

The diagnosis describes by the ICD-10-CM code S61.349D is a puncture wound with a foreign body of an unspecified finger with nail damage. This type of injury can have several adverse outcomes, including pain, tenderness, bleeding, swelling, fever, infection, inflammation, and restricted motion.

When a patient is brought in with such an injury, medical providers will diagnose the condition based on the patient’s medical history and physical examination, particularly to assess the nerves, bones, and blood vessels. The depth and severity of the wound will dictate the imaging techniques used, including X-rays, computed tomography, and MRI. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment options will be discussed with the patient.

Immediate and thorough cleaning of the wound is essential to reduce the risk of infection. Surgical removal of the foreign body, if present, will be accomplished as soon as possible, along with repair of the wound.

Control of any bleeding is crucial, and the application of appropriate topical medication and dressing will help to prevent further complications. Providers may also administer medications such as analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to control pain and inflammation.

Patients with puncture wounds and foreign bodies may require antibiotics to prevent or treat an infection, as well as tetanus prophylaxis to prevent a potentially severe disease caused by bacterial infection. Tetanus is a bacterial disease that affects the nervous system and can cause severe muscle spasms, leading to lockjaw or difficulty swallowing. It can also be life-threatening in some cases.

Prevention is the best approach to avoid puncture wounds and foreign bodies. Though accidents happen, taking preventative measures, such as wearing protective gloves and footwear, using proper equipment and tools, and being aware of your environment, can reduce your risk of injury.

If you experience a puncture wound with a foreign body in your finger, seek medical attention immediately. Do not delay treatment, as this can increase the risk of infection and other complications. Adhering to proper treatment and care will help ensure that the injury heals successfully and as quickly as possible.