ICD-10 Coding for Wide Complex Tachycardia(I47.1, I47.2, I47.9)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Wide Complex Tachycardia. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Wide Complex Tachycardia
I47.0-I47.9Primary Range
Paroxysmal tachycardia
This range includes codes for different types of tachycardia, including supraventricular and ventricular, which are relevant for coding wide complex tachycardia.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| I47.1 | Supraventricular tachycardia | Use when documentation specifies SVT with aberrancy and ECG findings support this diagnosis. |
|
| I47.2 | Ventricular tachycardia | Use when documentation specifies VT and ECG findings confirm the diagnosis. |
|
| I47.9 | Unspecified paroxysmal tachycardia | Use only when specific type of tachycardia cannot be determined. |
|
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 wide complex tachycardia
Essential facts and insights about Wide Complex Tachycardia
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for wide complex tachycardia
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- ECG shows wide QRS with visible P waves and response to adenosine
Applicable To
- SVT with aberrancy
Excludes
- Ventricular tachycardia (I47.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ECG shows wide QRS (>120ms) with visible P waves
- History of AVNRT
- Response to adenosine
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification as ventricular tachycardia
Coding Notes
- Ensure ECG findings and clinical history support SVT diagnosis.
I47.2 - Ventricular tachycardia
Use when documentation specifies VT and ECG findings confirm the diagnosis.
Applicable To
- Sustained VT
- Non-sustained VT
- Torsades de Pointes
Excludes
- Supraventricular tachycardia (I47.1)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ECG showing AV dissociation
- QRS >140ms
- History of CAD/MI
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies VT type and ECG findings support the diagnosis.
I47.9 - Unspecified paroxysmal tachycardia
Use only when specific type of tachycardia cannot be determined.
Applicable To
- WCT of unknown origin
Excludes
- Specific types of tachycardia (I47.1, I47.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation explicitly states 'unspecified mechanism' after workup
Coding Notes
Avoid using unless absolutely necessary; always seek to specify the type of tachycardia.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Wide Complex Tachycardia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I47.1.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to inaccurate clinical records., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit issues., Financial: May result in lower reimbursement rates.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure thorough documentation of ECG findings, Query providers for specifics when necessary
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: May result in compliance issues during audits., Data Quality: Impacts the accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Query provider to specify WCT mechanism (VT/SVT/other) and use I47.x codes.
Impact
Increased audit risk when using I47.9 without thorough documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports the use of specific codes whenever 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 Wide Complex Tachycardia, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Wide Complex Tachycardia
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Wide Complex Tachycardia. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Note for WCT
Specialty: CardiologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- ECG findings
- Diagnosis
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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