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ICD-10 Coding for Transient Ischaemic Attack(G45.9, G45.0)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Transient Ischaemic Attack. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

TIAMini-strokeTransient Cerebral Ischaemia

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Transient Ischaemic Attack

G45.0-G45.9Primary Range

Transient cerebral ischaemic attacks and related syndromes

This range includes all codes for transient ischaemic attacks, specifying different anatomical syndromes.

Cerebral infarction

Used for confirmed cases of cerebral infarction, not for TIA.

Sequelae of cerebrovascular disease

Used for documenting residual deficits post-cerebrovascular events.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
G45.9Transient cerebral ischaemic attack, unspecifiedUse when TIA is diagnosed but specific anatomical syndrome is not identified.
  • Episodic neurological deficits lasting <24h without acute infarction on imaging
G45.0Vertebro-basilar artery syndromeUse when TIA involves vertebrobasilar circulation.
  • Symptoms such as vertigo, ataxia, and visual disturbances.

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 transient ischaemic attack

Essential facts and insights about Transient Ischaemic Attack

The ICD-10 code for an unspecified transient ischaemic attack is G45.9. Specific syndromes are coded under G45.0-G45.4.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for transient ischaemic attack

Transient cerebral ischaemic attack, unspecified
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Symptoms resolve within 24 hours and imaging is negative for infarction.

Applicable To

  • Unspecified TIA

Excludes

  • Cerebral infarction (I63.x)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Episodic neurological deficits lasting <24h without acute infarction on imaging

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification as stroke if imaging is not negative.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure imaging results are documented to support TIA diagnosis.

Ancillary Codes

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

Personal history of transient ischaemic attack (TIA), and cerebral infarction without residual deficits

Z86.73
Use for history of TIA without current deficits.

Differential Codes

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

Cerebral infarction

I63.x
Confirmed by imaging showing acute infarction.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Transient Ischaemic Attack to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G45.9.

Impact

Clinical: Misdiagnosis risk if TIA is coded without confirmation., Regulatory: Potential audit failure due to incomplete records., Financial: Reimbursement issues if coding does not match documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure imaging is ordered and results are documented., Include imaging findings in all relevant notes.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect reimbursement due to higher severity coding., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use G45.x codes for TIA unless imaging confirms infarction.

Impact

Lack of imaging documentation can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all imaging results are included in patient records.

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 Transient Ischaemic Attack, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Transient Ischaemic Attack

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Transient Ischaemic Attack. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Emergency Department Evaluation

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Symptom onset and resolution time
  • Neurological assessment
  • Imaging results
  • Risk factor assessment

Example Documentation

Patient presented with 30-minute episode of left-sided weakness, resolved prior to arrival. CT negative for acute infarct.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient had a TIA.
Good Documentation Example
30-minute episode of dysarthria and right hand numbness, resolved at ED arrival. MRI negative for acute infarct.
Explanation
The good example provides specific symptoms, resolution time, and imaging results.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Transient Ischaemic Attack? Ask your questions below.

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