ICD-10 Coding for End-Stage Liver Disease(K74.60, K72.90)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for End-Stage Liver Disease. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to End-Stage Liver Disease
K70-K77Primary Range
Diseases of liver
This range includes codes for liver diseases, including cirrhosis and hepatic failure, which are relevant to ESLD.
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 | Cirrhosis of liver, unspecified | Use when cirrhosis is confirmed without specifying the cause. |
|
| K72.90 | Hepatic failure, unspecified without coma | Use when hepatic failure is diagnosed without specifying coma. |
|
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 end-stage liver disease
Essential facts and insights about End-Stage Liver Disease
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for end stage liver disease
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Biopsy or imaging confirming cirrhosis
Applicable To
- Micronodular cirrhosis
- Fibrosis stage 4 (Metavir)
Excludes
- Alcoholic cirrhosis (K70.30)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Biopsy confirmed cirrhosis
- Imaging showing nodular liver
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of under-documentation if etiology is not specified.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies cirrhosis and any complications.
K72.90 - Hepatic failure, unspecified without coma
Use when hepatic failure is diagnosed without specifying coma.
Applicable To
- Acute-on-chronic liver failure
Excludes
- Hepatic failure with coma (K72.91)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MELD score ≥ 20
- Bilirubin ≥ 3 mg/dL
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation includes MELD score and lab values.
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 End-Stage Liver Disease to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K74.60.
Impact
Clinical: Lack of clarity on treatment approach., Regulatory: Potential for audit issues., Financial: Incorrect DRG assignment.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify if alcohol or viral etiology is present., Use templates to ensure comprehensive documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to underpayment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Add I85.01 as secondary code for variceal bleeding.
Impact
Failure to document MELD scores can lead to audit issues.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement mandatory fields for MELD score in EHR templates.
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 End-Stage Liver Disease, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for End-Stage Liver Disease
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for End-Stage Liver Disease. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Decompensated Cirrhosis with Ascites
Specialty: HepatologyRequired Elements
- Patient history of liver disease
- Current symptoms and complications
- MELD score and lab values
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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