ICD-10 Coding for Dilated Aorta(I77.810, I71.21)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Dilated Aorta. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Dilated Aorta
I71-I77Primary Range
Diseases of arteries, arterioles, and capillaries
This range includes codes for aortic ectasia and aneurysms, which are relevant for coding dilated aorta conditions.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| I77.810 | Thoracic aortic ectasia | Use when the aortic diameter is less than 4.5 cm and does not meet criteria for aneurysm. |
|
| I71.21 | Aneurysm of ascending aorta without rupture | Use when the aortic diameter is 4.5 cm or greater, indicating an aneurysm. |
|
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 dilated aorta
Essential facts and insights about Dilated Aorta
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for dilated aorta
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Aortic diameter <4.5 cm on imaging
coding Criteria
- No evidence of aneurysm features
Applicable To
- Aortic root dilatation
- Ascending aorta dilatation
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing aortic diameter <4.5 cm
- Documentation of ectasia without aneurysm features
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusing ectasia with aneurysm leading to incorrect coding
Coding Notes
- Ensure accurate measurement documentation to differentiate between ectasia and aneurysm.
I71.21 - Aneurysm of ascending aorta without rupture
Use when the aortic diameter is 4.5 cm or greater, indicating an aneurysm.
Applicable To
- Non-ruptured aneurysm of ascending aorta
Excludes
- Ruptured aneurysm of aorta (I71.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing aortic diameter ≥4.5 cm
- Documentation of aneurysm features
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies the aortic diameter and presence of aneurysm features.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Congenital bicuspid aortic valve
Q23.1Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Dilated Aorta to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I77.810.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to misdiagnosis and inappropriate management., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to insufficient documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Standardize imaging reports to include diameter, Educate clinicians on documentation requirements
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to improper DRG assignment and reimbursement., Compliance: Misclassification can result in compliance issues during audits., Data Quality: Inaccurate data affects clinical decision-making and research.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify aortic diameter and document appropriately to differentiate between ectasia and aneurysm.
Impact
Failure to document aortic diameter can lead to audit findings.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement checks to ensure diameter is always documented in imaging reports.
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 Dilated Aorta, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Dilated Aorta
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Dilated Aorta. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Aortic Dilatation in BAV Patient
Specialty: CardiologyRequired Elements
- Aortic diameter
- Presence of BAV
- Imaging method
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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