ICD-10-CM Code S01.81XA: Laceration of Scalp & Face, Initial Encounter

Code: S01.81XA

Description: Laceration without foreign body of other part of head, initial encounter.

Includes: Laceration of scalp, face (excluding eyelid, lip, ear – separate codes), neck (if not otherwise specified).

Key Coding Notes

• 7th Character "A" = Active treatment phase (initial encounter).
• Use additional code for associated injury: fracture (S02.-), intracranial injury (S06.-), foreign body (S01.85-).
• Excludes1: Laceration of eyelid (S01.1-), lip (S01.5-), ear (S01.3-).
• Document: length (cm), depth (superficial vs. deep to fascia), contamination, neurologic/vessel integrity, repair method (simple/intermediate/complex).

Clinical Context

Common in ED/urgent care. Repair typically with 5-0/6-0 monofilament (face) or 4-0 (scalp). Tetanus prophylaxis per guidelines. Antibiotic prophylaxis for contaminated, bite, or >12 hr old wounds.