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ICD-10 Coding for Epiretinal Membrane(H35.379, H35.371)

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

Also known as:

Macular PuckerCellophane Maculopathy

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Epiretinal Membrane

H35.37Primary Range

Other retinal disorders

This range includes codes specific to epiretinal membrane conditions, with laterality distinctions.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
H35.379Puckering of macula, unspecified eyeUse when ERM is diagnosed but laterality is not specified.
  • OCT findings showing hyperreflective membrane
  • Visual symptoms such as metamorphopsia
H35.371Puckering of macula, right eyeUse when ERM is diagnosed in the right eye.
  • OCT findings showing hyperreflective membrane in the right eye
  • Visual symptoms such as metamorphopsia in the right eye

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 epiretinal membrane

Essential facts and insights about Epiretinal Membrane

The ICD-10 code for epiretinal membrane is H35.379 for unspecified eye, with specific codes H35.371 and H35.372 for right and left eyes, respectively.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for epiretinal membrane

Puckering of macula, unspecified eye
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of hyperreflective membrane on OCT

documentation Criteria

  • Lack of specified laterality

Applicable To

  • Epiretinal membrane

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • OCT findings showing hyperreflective membrane
  • Visual symptoms such as metamorphopsia

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of unspecified laterality leading to audit issues.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies OCT findings and visual symptoms.

Ancillary Codes

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

OCT imaging

92134
Use to document OCT findings supporting ERM diagnosis.

Differential Codes

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

Macular hole

H35.34
Macular hole involves a full-thickness defect in the macula, unlike ERM.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Epiretinal Membrane to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code H35.379.

Impact

Clinical: Impacts treatment planning and outcomes., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document laterality in the assessment and plan., Use laterality-specific codes.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure laterality is documented and use specific codes H35.371 or H35.372.

Impact

High risk of audit if laterality is not documented.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement mandatory laterality documentation in EHR systems.

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 Epiretinal Membrane, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Epiretinal Membrane

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

ERM diagnosis with surgical intervention

Specialty: Ophthalmology

Required Elements

  • Visual acuity measurements
  • OCT findings
  • Surgical plan and notes

Example Documentation

Patient presents with metamorphopsia OD. OCT reveals hyperreflective membrane. Scheduled for vitrectomy with membrane peel.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
ERM present, surgery planned.
Good Documentation Example
Symptomatic ERM OD with best-corrected VA 20/60 and metamorphopsia confirmed by OCT showing macular pseudohole formation.
Explanation
The good example includes specific symptoms, OCT findings, and a clear surgical plan.

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

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