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ICD-10 Coding for Pulmonary Embolism Unspecified(I26.99)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Pulmonary Embolism Unspecified. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

PE UnspecifiedPulmonary Embolism NOS

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Pulmonary Embolism Unspecified

I26.0-I26.99Primary Range

Pulmonary embolism and other pulmonary embolisms

This range includes all codes related to pulmonary embolism, including unspecified cases.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for pulmonary embolism unspecified

Essential facts and insights about Pulmonary Embolism Unspecified

The ICD-10 code for pulmonary embolism unspecified is I26.99, used when PE is confirmed without acute cor pulmonale.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for pulmonary embolism unspecified

Other pulmonary embolism without acute cor pulmonale
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • CT angiography confirms PE without acute cor pulmonale.

Applicable To

  • Unspecified pulmonary embolism

Excludes

  • Pulmonary embolism with acute cor pulmonale (I26.01)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • CT pulmonary angiography confirming PE
  • Absence of acute cor pulmonale on echocardiogram

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of under-coding if more specific details are available but not documented.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the absence of acute cor pulmonale.

Ancillary Codes

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

Personal history of pulmonary embolism

Z86.711
Use when PE is resolved and patient is on prophylactic anticoagulation.

Differential Codes

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

Septic pulmonary embolism with acute cor pulmonale

I26.01
Requires documentation of septic origin and acute cor pulmonale.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Pulmonary Embolism Unspecified to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I26.99.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Increased risk of audit and denial., Financial: Potential for incorrect billing and reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate providers on documentation specificity., Use templates to guide documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to potential underpayment., Compliance: Risk of audit due to lack of specificity., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Query provider to specify if PE is acute or chronic.

Impact

High risk of audit if more specific codes are applicable.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure thorough documentation and use of specific codes when possible.

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 Pulmonary Embolism Unspecified, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Pulmonary Embolism Unspecified

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Pulmonary Embolism Unspecified. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Acute PE without cor pulmonale

Specialty: Pulmonology

Required Elements

  • Acuity of PE
  • Imaging results
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with acute onset dyspnea. CTPA confirms PE without right heart strain. Initiated anticoagulation.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
PE confirmed.
Good Documentation Example
Acute PE confirmed by CTPA without evidence of right heart strain.
Explanation
The good example provides specificity and confirms absence of cor pulmonale.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Pulmonary Embolism Unspecified? Ask your questions below.

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