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ICD-10 Coding for Abdominal Aorta Atherosclerosis(I70.0)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Abdominal Aorta Atherosclerosis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Aortic AtherosclerosisAtherosclerosis of the Abdominal Aorta

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Abdominal Aorta Atherosclerosis

I70-I79Primary Range

Diseases of arteries, arterioles and capillaries

This range includes codes for atherosclerosis affecting various arteries, including the abdominal aorta.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for abdominal aorta atherosclerosis

Essential facts and insights about Abdominal Aorta Atherosclerosis

The ICD-10 code for abdominal aorta atherosclerosis is I70.0, covering atherosclerosis affecting the aorta.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for abdominal aorta atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis of aorta
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of imaging evidence of atherosclerosis in the abdominal aorta

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed description of plaque characteristics and associated symptoms

Applicable To

  • Atherosclerosis of the abdominal aorta

Excludes

  • Atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries (I25.1-)
  • Atherosclerosis of the extremities (I70.2-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging showing plaque buildup in the abdominal aorta
  • Lipid profile indicating dyslipidemia
  • Symptoms such as claudication or abdominal pain

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of under-documentation if imaging or symptoms are not clearly stated

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the location and severity of atherosclerosis.

Ancillary Codes

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

Atherosclerosis of arteries of extremities

I70.2-
Use when there is concurrent peripheral artery disease.

Differential Codes

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

Abdominal aortic aneurysm, without rupture

I71.4
Use when an aneurysm is present without rupture, distinct from atherosclerosis.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Abdominal Aorta Atherosclerosis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I70.0.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inadequate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with specificity requirements., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify the location and severity of atherosclerosis., Use imaging reports to guide documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Clarify whether the condition involves the aorta or the aortic valve.

Impact

Risk of audits due to non-specific coding of atherosclerosis.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed documentation of imaging and clinical 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 Abdominal Aorta Atherosclerosis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Abdominal Aorta Atherosclerosis

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Abdominal Aorta Atherosclerosis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Routine follow-up for known atherosclerosis

Specialty: Vascular Surgery

Required Elements

  • Imaging findings
  • Plaque characteristics
  • Symptom assessment
  • Management plan

Example Documentation

Patient with severe calcific atherosclerosis of the abdominal aorta, 70% luminal narrowing on CTA. Managed with statins and lifestyle modifications.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Aortic plaque noted.
Good Documentation Example
Severe calcific atherosclerosis of infrarenal abdominal aorta with 70% luminal narrowing on CTA.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the location, severity, and imaging findings.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Abdominal Aorta Atherosclerosis? Ask your questions below.

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