ICD-10 Coding for Alcoholic Cirrhosis with Ascites(K70.31)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Alcoholic Cirrhosis with Ascites. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Alcoholic Cirrhosis with Ascites
K70-K77Primary Range
Diseases of liver
This range includes codes for liver diseases, with K70.31 specifically for alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites
Essential facts and insights about Alcoholic Cirrhosis with Ascites
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of ascites confirmed by imaging or paracentesis.
documentation Criteria
- Explicit mention of alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites in medical records.
Applicable To
- Alcoholic liver cirrhosis with ascites
Excludes
- Cirrhosis without ascites (K70.30)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- AST:ALT ratio >2
- SAAG ≥1.1 g/dL on paracentesis
- Imaging showing nodular liver
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding as K70.30 if ascites is present.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation explicitly links ascites to alcoholic cirrhosis.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Alcohol dependence, uncomplicated
F10.20Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Alcoholic cirrhosis of liver without ascites
K70.30Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Alcoholic Cirrhosis with Ascites to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K70.31.
Impact
Clinical: Incomplete clinical picture., Regulatory: Potential audit issues., Financial: Missed reimbursement opportunities.
Mitigation Strategy
Review patient history for alcohol use., Include F10.20 when dependence is documented.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use K70.31 when ascites is due to alcoholic cirrhosis.
Impact
Failure to document ascites can lead to audit discrepancies.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure SAAG and imaging findings are included in 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 Alcoholic Cirrhosis with Ascites, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Alcoholic Cirrhosis with Ascites
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Alcoholic Cirrhosis with Ascites. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Inpatient Admission for Alcoholic Cirrhosis with Ascites
Specialty: HepatologyRequired Elements
- Diagnosis of alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites
- SAAG results
- Imaging findings
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Alcoholic Cirrhosis with Ascites? Ask your questions below.