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ICD-10 Coding for Achalasia(K22.0)

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

Also known as:

CardiospasmEsophageal Achalasia

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Achalasia

K20-K31Primary Range

Diseases of esophagus, stomach and duodenum

This range includes conditions affecting the esophagus, including achalasia.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for achalasia

Essential facts and insights about Achalasia

The ICD-10 code for achalasia is K22.0, requiring HRM confirmation for accurate diagnosis.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for achalasia

Achalasia of cardia
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • HRM confirms absent peristalsis with elevated IRP.

documentation Criteria

  • Chicago Classification subtype is documented.

Applicable To

  • Cardiospasm
  • Achalasia NOS

Excludes

  • Congenital cardiospasm (Q39.5)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • High-resolution manometry (HRM) confirms absent peristalsis with elevated IRP >15 mmHg
  • Chicago Classification v4.0: Type I, II, or III

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using unspecified codes when specific subtypes are documented.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure HRM results are documented to support the use of K22.0.

Ancillary Codes

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

Dysphagia

R13.1-
Use to document symptoms of dysphagia associated with achalasia.

GERD without esophagitis

K21.9
Use for post-treatment reflux symptoms.

Differential Codes

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

Congenital cardiospasm

Q39.5
Use if onset is congenital, typically identified in patients under 18 years.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Achalasia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K22.0.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis and treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure HRM results are included in all achalasia diagnoses., Train staff on documentation requirements.

Impact

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

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure HRM documentation supports the specific diagnosis of achalasia.

Impact

Lack of HRM documentation can trigger audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement checklist for HRM documentation in clinical notes.

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 Achalasia, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Achalasia

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

Achalasia diagnosis and treatment planning

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • Subjective: Symptoms and duration
  • Objective: HRM results
  • Assessment: Subtype classification
  • Plan: Treatment options

Example Documentation

Subjective: Dysphagia to solids/liquids x 6 months. Objective: HRM: IRP 28 mmHg, Type II achalasia. Assessment: Achalasia, Type II (K22.0). Plan: POEM vs. Heller myotomy.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Dysphagia, rule out achalasia.
Good Documentation Example
HRM confirms Type II achalasia (IRP 26 mmHg, pan-esophageal pressurization in 8/10 swallows).
Explanation
The good example provides specific HRM findings and subtype classification, supporting accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Achalasia? Ask your questions below.

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