ICD-10 Coding for Esophageal Spasm(K22.4)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Esophageal Spasm. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Esophageal Spasm
K20-K31Primary Range
Diseases of esophagus, stomach and duodenum
This range includes conditions affecting the esophagus, such as esophageal spasm.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for esophageal spasm
Essential facts and insights about Esophageal Spasm
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for esophageal spasm
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of ≥20% premature contractions on HRM
documentation Criteria
- Documentation of HRM or barium swallow results
Applicable To
- Diffuse esophageal spasm
- Corkscrew esophagus
- Spasm of esophagus
Excludes
- Achalasia (K22.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- HRM findings: ≥20% premature contractions with normal LES relaxation
- Barium swallow showing corkscrew esophagus
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusion with achalasia due to similar symptoms
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the type of esophageal spasm and diagnostic confirmation.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Achalasia
K22.0Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Esophageal Spasm to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K22.4.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed documentation of diagnostic tests and findings.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to potential underpayment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Sequence K22.4 first when DES is confirmed.
Impact
Lack of HRM or barium swallow documentation for K22.4.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all diagnostic tests are documented in the patient's record.
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 Esophageal Spasm, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Esophageal Spasm
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Esophageal Spasm. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Esophageal spasm with chest pain
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Symptoms
- Diagnostic tests
- HRM findings
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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