Question 1

Is T79 a billable ICD-10 code?

Accepted Answer

No, T79 is not a billable code. It is a category code that requires additional specificity. You must select a more specific code from the subcategories for billing purposes.

Question 2

What does ICD-10 code T79 mean?

Accepted Answer

ICD-10-CM code T79 represents Certain early complications of trauma, not elsewhere classified. This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification used for medical coding and billing in the United States.

Question 3

When was ICD-10 code T79 introduced?

Accepted Answer

Code T79 has been part of ICD-10-CM since 2016, when the coding system was mandated for use in the United States. This code was included in the original US implementation.

Question 4

What is the parent category for ICD-10 code T79?

Accepted Answer

The parent category for T79 is section:T79 (Certain early complications of trauma (T79)). This hierarchical classification helps organize related diagnoses for more accurate coding.

Question 5

What conditions should be coded separately from T79?

Accepted Answer

Code T79 has Type 2 Excludes including: acute respiratory distress syndrome (J80); complications occurring during or following medical procedures (T80-T88); complications of surgical and medical care NEC (T80-T88) and 1 more conditions. These conditions are not included in T79 but can be coded together if the patient has both conditions.

Question 6

Does T79 require a 7th character extension?

Accepted Answer

Yes, T79 requires a 7th character to specify the encounter type. Available extensions include: A (initial encounter), D (subsequent encounter), S (sequela). Use "X" as a placeholder to fill empty positions before the 7th character (e.g., T79XXA for initial encounter). The extension indicates whether this is an initial visit, follow-up, or treatment for a late effect.

T792026

Excludes26Not included here

Use Additional Code1Add code for detail

Notes2Additional information

7th Character Extensions3Encounter type specifiers