If 2nd and 3rd degree burns combined are greater than 10% TBSA, how should they be coded?

When coding burns, especially when dealing with 2nd and 3rd degree burns, understanding Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) is crucial. If the combined burns account for more than 10% TBSA, it is standard practice to code them as combined rather than separately. This approach acknowledges the overall extent of the injury rather than assessing each degree of burn in isolation, which can lead to a more accurate representation of patient care needs and treatment. By coding the burns as combined, it streamlines the analysis of severity and can impact decisions related to treatment protocols, monitoring, and billing practices. This method reflects a comprehensive understanding of the patient's injuries and ensures that the medical data accurately portrays the extent of burn damage.