ICD-10-CM Billable Code

S35.512

Injury of left iliac artery

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

Injury to the left iliac artery is a serious condition that involves damage to one of the major arteries supplying blood to the lower limb. The iliac arteries are large blood vessels located in the pelvis, and they play a crucial role in delivering oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the legs. An injury to this artery can result from trauma, accidents, or surgical complications, leading to significant health concerns if not treated promptly. Recognizing the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is vital for understanding this medical condition.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Traumatic injuries from car accidents or falls Penetrating wounds, such as stab or gunshot injuries Pelvic fractures that damage the artery Surgical complications during pelvic or abdominal surgeries Blunt force trauma to the lower abdomen or pelvis

Key Symptoms: Sudden severe pain in the pelvis or groin area Swelling or a lump in the pelvis or thigh Signs of internal bleeding, such as dizziness, weakness, or fainting Pale or cold skin in the affected limb Loss of pulse or reduced blood flow in the leg Possible limb numbness or paralysis due to compromised blood supply

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Physical assessment to check for pulse, swelling, and tenderness in the pelvis and leg Ultrasound imaging (Doppler ultrasound) to assess blood flow Computed tomography (CT) angiography to visualize blood vessels Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) for detailed vascular images Angiography, an invasive procedure that provides precise information about the injury

Treatment Protocols: Emergency surgical repair to ligate or suture the injured artery Endovascular procedures, such as stent placement or embolization, to minimally invasive repair Blood transfusions if significant blood loss has occurred Supportive care includes stabilization of vital signs and monitoring for complications Follow-up imaging to ensure the success of the repair and monitor for potential complications

Reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015 require the use of ICD-10-CM codes.

Clinical Advice & FAQs

Billing Guidance

Is S35.512 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S35.512 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report S35.512?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Injury of left iliac artery and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

Cite this Clinical Reference