ICD-10 Coding for Threatened Abortion(O20.0, O20.9)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Threatened Abortion. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Threatened Abortion
O20-O29Primary Range
Other maternal disorders predominantly related to pregnancy
This range includes codes for complications related to pregnancy, including threatened abortion.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| O20.0 | Threatened abortion | Use when there is documented vaginal bleeding in a viable pregnancy with a closed cervical os. |
|
| O20.9 | Hemorrhage in early pregnancy, unspecified | Use when there is bleeding in early pregnancy but specific details are unavailable. |
|
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 threatened abortion
Essential facts and insights about Threatened Abortion
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for threatened abortion
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of vaginal bleeding with closed cervical os and viable pregnancy
documentation Criteria
- Ultrasound and β-hCG levels documented
Applicable To
- Vaginal bleeding with closed cervical os
- Viable intrauterine pregnancy
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Ultrasound confirming gestational sac
- Quantitative β-hCG levels
- Documented 'threatened abortion'
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification as spontaneous abortion
- Inadequate documentation of cervical status
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation includes cervical status and ultrasound findings.
O20.9 - Hemorrhage in early pregnancy, unspecified
Use when there is bleeding in early pregnancy but specific details are unavailable.
Applicable To
- Bleeding in pregnancy NOS
Excludes
- Threatened abortion (O20.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of bleeding without specific findings
Coding Notes
Update to a more specific code once additional information is available.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Hemorrhage in early pregnancy, unspecified
O20.9Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Spontaneous abortion, unspecified
O03.9Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Threatened Abortion to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code O20.0.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate assessment of pregnancy status., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential claim denials due to incomplete coding.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document gestational age in weeks., Use gestational age codes (Z3A.XX) consistently.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies closed cervical os and no tissue passage.
Impact
Failure to document cervical status and ultrasound findings can lead to audit issues.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement standardized templates that prompt for all necessary details.
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 Threatened Abortion, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Threatened Abortion
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Threatened Abortion. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
OB ED Encounter for Threatened Abortion
Specialty: ObstetricsRequired Elements
- History of present illness
- Physical exam findings
- Ultrasound results
- β-hCG levels
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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