S45.001
Unspecified injury of axillary artery, right side
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Medical Intelligence & Overview
An “unpecified injury of the axillary artery” refers to harm caused to the blood vessel that supplies blood to the upper limb, specifically on the right side of the body. The axillary artery is a major vessel located in the armpit region, and injuries to it can impact blood flow, potentially leading to serious complications. Because the injury is classified as "unspecified," it means there may not be detailed information about the specific type or severity of the injury, such as whether it is a tear, rupture, or laceration. Recognizing and understanding this condition is essential, as injuries to this artery can increase the risk of bleeding, ischemia (restricted blood flow), and other vascular complications.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Trauma from accidents or falls that directly impact the shoulder or upper chest area Blunt force injuries during sports or physical activities Penetrating wounds, such as stab or gunshot injuries, that puncture the armpit region Surgical procedures or medical interventions in the area that may inadvertently damage the artery Blunt or penetrating trauma associated with motor vehicle accidents
Key Symptoms: Sudden pain or discomfort in the shoulder, upper arm, or chest Swelling or a visible lump in the armpit area Blue discoloration or pallor of the arm and hand due to compromised blood flow Weakness or numbness in the arm and hand Decreased or absent pulse in the affected arm Potential bleeding or signs of internal hemorrhage in severe cases
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Physical examination to check for pulse, swelling, or signs of bleeding Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow within the artery Computed tomography angiography (CTA) or magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) to get detailed images of blood vessels Conventional angiography may be performed to pinpoint the exact location and severity of the injury
Treatment Protocols: Emergency stabilization to control bleeding and maintain vital signs Surgical repair, such as bypass grafting or vessel repair, to restore blood flow Endovascular procedures like stent placement for less invasive restoration of blood vessel integrity Monitoring and supportive care, including pain management and infection prevention Rehabilitation therapy to restore arm function and strength following treatment
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is S45.001 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S45.001 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report S45.001?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Unspecified injury of axillary artery, right side and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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