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Wiki BASIC question..is the forehead the scalp?

Rncoder

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when coding for a laceration repair on the forehead, how do you distinguish if you code for the scalp or the face? thanks
 
It depends on whether you're talking ICD or CPT.

ICD makes a definite distinction between the two Dx codes (873.4X forehead and 873.X for scalp). CPT Repair codes also make a distinction.

According to Miller-Keane, the scalp is, "that part of the skin of the head (exclusive of the face) which is usually covered by a growth of hair." (Miller-Keane Encyclopedia & Dictionary of Med., Nursing & Allied Health, 7th Ed, pg 1587).

With that being said, the aforementioned hairline makes the distinction.

Hope this helps and good luck.
 
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