Non-specific code 2015 ICD-9-CM Diagnosis Code 801
Fracture of base of skull
  • 2015
  • Non-Billable Code

  • There are 10 ICD-9-CM codes below 801 that define this diagnosis in greater detail. Do not use this code on a reimbursement claim.
Clinical Information
  • Fractures which extend through the base of the skull, usually involving the petrous bone. Battle's sign (characterized by skin discoloration due to extravasation of blood into the subcutaneous tissue behind the ear and over the mastoid process), cranial neuropathies, traumatic; carotid-cavernous sinus fistula; and cerebrospinal fluid otorrhea are relatively frequent sequelae of this condition. (Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p876)
801 Includes
  • fossa:
    • anterior
    • middle
    • posterior
  • occiput bone
  • orbital roof
  • sinus:
    • ethmoid
    • frontal
  • sphenoid bone
  • temporal bone
ICD-9-CM codes are used in medical billing and coding to describe diseases, injuries, symptoms and conditions. ICD-9-CM 801 is one of thousands of ICD-9-CM codes used in healthcare. Although ICD-9-CM and CPT codes are largely numeric, they differ in that CPT codes describe medical procedures and services. Can't find a code? Start at the root of ICD-9-CM, check the 2015 ICD-9-CM Index or use the search engine at the top of this page to lookup any code.