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ICD-10 Coding for Abnormal PET Scan Findings(R93.89)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Abnormal PET Scan Findings. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Abnormal Positron Emission TomographyPET Scan Anomalies

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Abnormal PET Scan Findings

R93.8-R93.89Primary Range

Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of other specified body structures

This range includes codes for abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging that are not specific to a particular organ system.

Abnormal results of function studies

Includes codes for abnormal findings in functional studies, such as brain scans.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for abnormal PET scan

Essential facts and insights about Abnormal PET Scan Findings

The ICD-10 code for an abnormal PET scan is R93.89, used when findings are not specific to a particular organ system.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for abnormal pet scan

Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of other specified body structures
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Abnormal PET scan findings not specific to a particular organ system

Applicable To

  • Abnormal PET scan findings not specific to an organ

Excludes

  • Findings specific to a particular organ system

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Anatomic specificity
  • SUV values
  • Clinical correlation

Code-Specific Risks

  • Using as a principal diagnosis when a definitive diagnosis is available

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the exact location and nature of the abnormality.

Ancillary Codes

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

Abnormal brain scan

R94.02
Use when PET scan shows abnormal brain findings without structural correlate.

Differential Codes

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

Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of liver

R93.2
Use R93.2 if the PET scan specifically indicates liver abnormalities.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Abnormal PET Scan Findings to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R93.89.

Impact

Clinical: Incomplete clinical documentation, Regulatory: Non-compliance with billing requirements, Financial: Potential claim denials

Mitigation Strategy

Always document FDG dose administered, Include time of administration in the report

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect sequencing may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Sequence the definitive diagnosis code first, followed by R93.89.

Impact

Using R93.89 as a primary code when a definitive diagnosis exists.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure definitive diagnosis codes are sequenced first.

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 Abnormal PET Scan Findings, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Abnormal PET Scan Findings

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Abnormal PET Scan Findings. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Oncology PET/CT Scan

Specialty: Oncology

Required Elements

  • Indication for PET scan
  • Specific findings with locations
  • SUV values
  • Comparison to prior imaging
  • Follow-up recommendations

Example Documentation

Indication: Restaging of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Findings: New hypermetabolic splenic lesion (SUVmax 7.8, 2.1 cm). Impression: Deauville 4 splenic lesion suspicious for progression. Recommend biopsy.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Abnormal PET scan
Good Documentation Example
Intense FDG uptake (SUVmax 18.9) in 4.1 cm spiculated right upper lobe mass, mediastinal nodes negative. No prior comparison available.
Explanation
The good example provides specific findings, SUV values, and a comparison to prior imaging, which are essential for accurate documentation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Abnormal PET Scan Findings? Ask your questions below.

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