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ICD-10 Coding for Aortic Root Aneurysm(I71.21, I71.11)

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

Also known as:

Ascending Aortic AneurysmThoracic Aortic Aneurysm

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Aortic Root Aneurysm

I71.0-I71.9Primary Range

Aortic aneurysm and dissection

This range includes codes for aortic aneurysms, specifically addressing the thoracic and ascending aorta, which encompasses the aortic root.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
I71.21Aneurysm of ascending aorta, without ruptureUse when an aortic root aneurysm is confirmed without rupture.
  • Imaging confirmation via CT or MRI
  • Measurement of aortic root diameter
I71.11Ruptured aneurysm of ascending aortaUse when an aortic root aneurysm is confirmed with rupture.
  • Clinical signs of rupture
  • Imaging confirmation of rupture

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 aortic root aneurysm

Essential facts and insights about Aortic Root Aneurysm

The ICD-10 code for a non-ruptured aortic root aneurysm is I71.21, while a ruptured aortic root aneurysm is coded as I71.11.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for aortic root aneurysm

Aneurysm of ascending aorta, without rupture
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Aortic root diameter >4.0 cm on imaging

Applicable To

  • Aortic root aneurysm without rupture

Excludes

  • Ruptured aortic aneurysm (I71.11)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging confirmation via CT or MRI
  • Measurement of aortic root diameter

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if rupture status is not documented

Coding Notes

  • Ensure rupture status is clearly documented to avoid incorrect coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Ectasia of aorta

I77.810
Use when there is dilation without true aneurysm formation.

Shock, unspecified

R57.9
Use if shock is present due to rupture.

Differential Codes

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

Ruptured aneurysm of ascending aorta

I71.11
Use I71.11 if the aneurysm is ruptured.

Aneurysm of ascending aorta, without rupture

I71.21
Use I71.21 if the aneurysm is not ruptured.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Aortic Root Aneurysm to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I71.21.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate clinical management decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Loss of appropriate reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Train staff on documentation standards, Use checklists for clinical documentation

Impact

Reimbursement: Potential loss of MCC-related reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreased accuracy in clinical data reporting.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies the location and rupture status of the aneurysm.

Impact

Failure to document rupture status can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement documentation protocols for 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 Aortic Root Aneurysm, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Aortic Root Aneurysm

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

Non-ruptured Aortic Root Aneurysm

Specialty: Cardiology

Required Elements

  • Anatomic location
  • Size in centimeters
  • Rupture status
  • Measurement method

Example Documentation

4.8cm aortic root aneurysm (max diameter at right coronary sinus) without rupture, confirmed by ECG-gated CTA.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Enlarged aortic root
Good Documentation Example
4.8cm aortic root aneurysm without rupture, confirmed by CT.
Explanation
The good example provides specific size and confirmation method, ensuring accurate coding.

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

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