ICD-10 Coding for Paroxysmal Atrial Flutter(I48.3, I48.4, I48.92)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Paroxysmal Atrial Flutter. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Paroxysmal Atrial Flutter
I48.3-I48.4Primary Range
Codes for typical and atypical atrial flutter
These codes cover the classification of atrial flutter into typical and atypical types, which are relevant for paroxysmal cases.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| I48.3 | Typical atrial flutter | Use when ECG confirms typical atrial flutter with paroxysmal episodes. |
|
| I48.4 | Atypical atrial flutter | Use when ECG confirms atypical atrial flutter with paroxysmal episodes. |
|
| I48.92 | Unspecified atrial flutter | Use when documentation does not specify type of atrial flutter. |
|
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 paroxysmal atrial flutter
Essential facts and insights about Paroxysmal Atrial Flutter
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for paroxysmal atrial flutter
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- ECG shows sawtooth pattern in inferior leads
Applicable To
- Counterclockwise isthmus-dependent atrial flutter
Excludes
- Atrial fibrillation (I48.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ECG showing sawtooth pattern in inferior leads
- Atrial rate between 240-340 bpm
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification with atrial fibrillation
- Incorrect documentation of flutter type
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'typical' and 'paroxysmal' to use this code.
I48.4 - Atypical atrial flutter
Use when ECG confirms atypical atrial flutter with paroxysmal episodes.
Applicable To
- Non-isthmus-dependent atrial flutter
Excludes
- Typical atrial flutter (I48.3)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ECG showing variable morphology
- Atrial rate between 340-440 bpm
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies 'atypical' and 'paroxysmal' to use this code.
I48.92 - Unspecified atrial flutter
Use when documentation does not specify type of atrial flutter.
Excludes
- Typical atrial flutter (I48.3)
- Atypical atrial flutter (I48.4)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Lack of specific ECG findings
Coding Notes
Use only when type of flutter is not documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Personal history of atrial flutter
Z86.79Differential 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 Paroxysmal Atrial Flutter to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I48.3.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to potential misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: May result in denied claims or audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate providers on importance of specifying flutter type., Implement documentation templates.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Require ECG confirmation of flutter vs. fibrillation.
Impact
Increased audit risk when using I48.92 without attempts to specify type.
Mitigation Strategy
Encourage detailed documentation and provider queries.
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 Paroxysmal Atrial Flutter, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Paroxysmal Atrial Flutter
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Paroxysmal Atrial Flutter. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Note
Specialty: CardiologyRequired Elements
- History of Present Illness
- ECG findings
- Assessment and Plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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