Back to HomeBeta

ICD-10 Coding for Aneurysm(I71.1, I71.4)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Aneurysm. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Arterial aneurysmVascular aneurysm

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Aneurysm

I71-I72Primary Range

Aortic and peripheral aneurysms

This range includes codes for aortic aneurysms and other peripheral aneurysms, which are the primary focus for aneurysm coding.

Cerebral aneurysm, non-ruptured

This code is relevant for documenting cerebral aneurysms that have not ruptured.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
I71.1Ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysmUse when there is a confirmed rupture of the thoracic aorta.
  • CT/MRI confirmation of rupture location
  • Documentation of hemodynamic instability
I71.4Abdominal aortic aneurysm, without ruptureUse when an abdominal aortic aneurysm is present without rupture.
  • Ultrasound showing diameter ≥3 cm
  • No evidence of dissection on imaging

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysm

Essential facts and insights about Aneurysm

The ICD-10 code for a ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysm is I71.1, requiring imaging confirmation.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for aneurysm

Ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysm
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of rupture confirmed by imaging

Applicable To

  • Ruptured aneurysm of thoracic aorta

Excludes

  • Traumatic aneurysm of thoracic aorta (S25.09)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • CT/MRI confirmation of rupture location
  • Documentation of hemodynamic instability

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misidentifying rupture status without imaging confirmation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure rupture status is clearly documented.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Aortic aneurysm due to underlying disease

I79.0
Use when the aneurysm is secondary to another condition like syphilis.

Aortic ectasia

I77.81
Use for mild dilation of the aorta.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Thoracic aortic aneurysm, without rupture

I71.2
Use when imaging confirms no rupture.

Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm

I71.3
Use when rupture is confirmed by imaging.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Aneurysm to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I71.1.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Financial: Incorrect billing and potential revenue loss.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the specific location of the aneurysm., Use imaging to confirm and document findings.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment and reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient care.

Mitigation Strategy

Always confirm aneurysm location and rupture status with imaging.

Impact

Inadequate documentation of rupture status can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all imaging and clinical notes clearly state rupture status.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Aneurysm, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Aneurysm

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Aneurysm. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Unruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm

Specialty: Vascular Surgery

Required Elements

  • Location and size of aneurysm
  • Imaging results
  • Rupture status

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
AAA noted, will monitor.
Good Documentation Example
5.1 cm infrarenal AAA without rupture (CTA 3/24/25). No tenderness. Plan: 6-month surveillance ultrasound.
Explanation
The good example provides specific size, location, and follow-up plan.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Aneurysm? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

We build tools for
clinician happiness.

Learn More at Freed.ai
Back to HomeBeta

Built by Freed

Try Freed for free for 7 days.

Learn more