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

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

Also known as:

Intermediate-risk Pulmonary EmbolismPE with RV Dysfunction

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Submassive Pulmonary Embolism

I26.0-I26.9Primary Range

Pulmonary embolism and other pulmonary vascular diseases

This range includes codes for various types of pulmonary embolism, including submassive PE.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for submassive pulmonary embolism

Essential facts and insights about Submassive Pulmonary Embolism

The ICD-10 code for submassive pulmonary embolism without acute cor pulmonale is I26.99.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for submassive pulmonary embolism

Other pulmonary embolism without acute cor pulmonale
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of RV dysfunction without hypotension

Applicable To

  • Submassive pulmonary embolism without acute cor pulmonale

Excludes

  • Pulmonary embolism with acute cor pulmonale (I26.09)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • RV/LV ratio >0.9 on CT
  • Elevated troponin >0.1 ng/mL
  • Echocardiographic findings of RV dysfunction

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification as massive PE if hypotension is present.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies RV dysfunction and absence of hypotension.

Ancillary Codes

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

Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of heart and coronary circulation

R94.31
Use to document elevated troponin levels if not embedded in primary code logic.

Differential Codes

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

Pulmonary embolism with acute cor pulmonale

I26.09
Use when acute cor pulmonale is present with PE.

Documentation & Coding Risks

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

Impact

Clinical: Misclassification of PE severity., Regulatory: Potential audit issues., Financial: Incorrect DRG assignment affecting reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all imaging and biomarker results are documented.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to reimbursement issues., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify duration of anticoagulation and document acuity.

Impact

Inadequate documentation of RV dysfunction can lead to audit failures.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure comprehensive documentation of imaging and biomarker findings.

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

Documentation Templates for Submassive Pulmonary Embolism

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

Emergency Department Note

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Assessment of RV dysfunction
  • Troponin levels
  • CT findings
  • Blood pressure status

Example Documentation

58F with submassive PE (I26.99): RV dysfunction confirmed by CT (RV/LV ratio 1.2), elevated troponin T 0.15 ng/mL, normotensive (BP 110/70 mmHg).

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
PE with some heart strain; continue anticoagulation.
Good Documentation Example
Submassive PE with RV dysfunction: CT RV/LV ratio 1.3, troponin I 1.8 ng/mL, no hypotension.
Explanation
The good example provides specific clinical findings supporting the diagnosis.

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

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