ICD-10 Coding for Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis(K74.60, K74.61)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis
K70-K77Primary Range
Diseases of the liver
This range includes codes for liver diseases, including cirrhosis and its complications.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K74.60 | Unspecified cirrhosis of liver | Use when cirrhosis is diagnosed but etiology is not specified. |
|
| K74.61 | Decompensated cirrhosis of liver | Use when cirrhosis is decompensated with complications. |
|
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 decompensated liver cirrhosis
Essential facts and insights about Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for decompensated liver cirrhosis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Cirrhosis confirmed by imaging or biopsy
Applicable To
- Liver cirrhosis not otherwise specified
Excludes
- Alcoholic cirrhosis (K70.30)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented liver biopsy showing cirrhosis
- Imaging studies consistent with cirrhosis
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of under-documenting specific etiology
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies cirrhosis and any complications.
K74.61 - Decompensated cirrhosis of liver
Use when cirrhosis is decompensated with complications.
Applicable To
- Cirrhosis with complications such as ascites, varices, or encephalopathy
Excludes
- Compensated cirrhosis (K74.60)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Presence of ascites, varices, or hepatic encephalopathy
- MELD score indicating liver dysfunction
Coding Notes
Document all decompensated features and link them to cirrhosis.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K74.60.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate representation of patient's condition., Regulatory: Potential for audit issues., Financial: Loss of reimbursement for higher complexity care.
Mitigation Strategy
Use templates to ensure all features are documented.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect sequencing can lead to lower DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure cirrhosis is sequenced before complications like varices.
Impact
Failure to document all complications can lead to audit discrepancies.
Mitigation Strategy
Use comprehensive templates and checklists.
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 Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Hepatology Progress Note
Specialty: HepatologyRequired Elements
- Assessment of cirrhosis and complications
- MELD score calculation
- Management plan for complications
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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