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ICD-10 Coding for Amaurosis Fugax(G45.3)

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

Also known as:

Transient Monocular BlindnessFleeting Blindness

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Amaurosis Fugax

G45.0-G45.9Primary Range

Transient Cerebral Ischemic Attacks and Related Syndromes

This range includes codes for transient ischemic attacks, including amaurosis fugax.

Retinal Vascular Occlusions

This range includes codes for retinal artery occlusions, which must be differentiated from amaurosis fugax.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for amaurosis fugax

Essential facts and insights about Amaurosis Fugax

The ICD-10 code for amaurosis fugax is G45.3, used for transient monocular vision loss without confirmed retinal artery occlusion.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for amaurosis fugax

Amaurosis fugax
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Transient vision loss lasting seconds to minutes

documentation Criteria

  • Specify affected eye and duration of vision loss

Applicable To

  • Transient monocular vision loss

Excludes

  • H34.0 - Transient retinal artery occlusion

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Carotid ultrasound showing stenosis
  • MRI to rule out other causes
  • ESR/CRP for giant cell arteritis

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with retinal artery occlusion
  • Lack of laterality documentation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies laterality and duration of vision loss.

Ancillary Codes

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

Occlusion and stenosis of right carotid artery

I65.21
Use if imaging confirms ipsilateral carotid disease.

Occlusion and stenosis of left carotid artery

I65.23
Use if imaging confirms ipsilateral carotid disease.

Differential Codes

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

Transient retinal artery occlusion

H34.0
Use H34.0 if a retinal embolus is confirmed on fundoscopy.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Amaurosis Fugax to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G45.3.

Impact

Clinical: Impairs clinical decision-making., Regulatory: May lead to coding errors., Financial: Could result in claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Train staff on importance of laterality., Use templates that prompt for laterality.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Violates Excludes1 note., Data Quality: Leads to inaccurate clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Use H34.0 alone if retinal embolus is confirmed.

Impact

Incorrect use of G45.3 with H34.0.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate coders on Excludes1 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 Amaurosis Fugax, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Amaurosis Fugax

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

Neurology Evaluation

Specialty: Neurology

Required Elements

  • Duration of vision loss
  • Affected eye
  • Associated symptoms
  • Carotid bruit

Example Documentation

55M with 3 episodes of left-eye vision loss (30-45 sec each), described as 'black shade rising vertically.' No headache or weakness. Left carotid bruit present.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Vision loss occurred.
Good Documentation Example
Two episodes of left-eye vision loss (20 sec each), vertical curtain pattern. Left carotid bruit noted.
Explanation
The good example specifies duration, pattern, and associated findings, improving clinical clarity.

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

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