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ICD-10 Coding for Aneurysm of Ascending Aorta Without Rupture(I71.21)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Aneurysm of Ascending Aorta Without Rupture. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Ascending Aortic Aneurysm Without RuptureNon-ruptured Ascending Aortic Aneurysm

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Aneurysm of Ascending Aorta Without Rupture

I71.0-I71.9Primary Range

Aortic aneurysm and dissection

This range includes all types of aortic aneurysms and dissections, with I71.21 specifically for ascending aorta without rupture.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for aneurysm of ascending aorta without rupture

Essential facts and insights about Aneurysm of Ascending Aorta Without Rupture

The ICD-10 code for aneurysm of ascending aorta without rupture is I71.21. It is used when imaging confirms an aneurysm in the ascending aorta without evidence of rupture.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for aneurysm of ascending aorta without rupture

Aneurysm of ascending aorta, without rupture
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Imaging shows dilation of the ascending aorta without rupture.

documentation Criteria

  • Documentation must specify 'ascending aorta' and 'without rupture'.

Applicable To

  • Non-ruptured aneurysm of ascending aorta

Excludes

  • Aneurysm of aortic arch (I71.22)
  • Aneurysm of descending thoracic aorta (I71.23)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging confirmation of ascending aortic dilation
  • Measurement of aortic diameter
  • Absence of rupture

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with other thoracic aortic aneurysms
  • Incorrectly coding as unspecified thoracic aneurysm

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'ascending aorta' and confirms absence of rupture.

Ancillary Codes

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

Thoracic aortic ectasia

I77.810
Use for borderline dilation of the thoracic aorta that does not meet aneurysm criteria.

Aneurysm of aorta in diseases classified elsewhere

I79.0
Use when the aneurysm is due to an underlying condition like Marfan syndrome.

Differential Codes

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

Aneurysm of aortic arch

I71.22
Use if the aneurysm involves the aortic arch rather than the ascending aorta.

Aneurysm of descending thoracic aorta

I71.23
Use if the aneurysm is located in the descending thoracic aorta.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Aneurysm of Ascending Aorta Without Rupture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I71.21.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to incomplete documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Always include rupture status in clinical documentation., Use templates to ensure completeness.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding specificity requirements., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies the aneurysm is in the ascending aorta.

Impact

Audits may focus on whether the aneurysm location is clearly documented.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all imaging and clinical notes specify 'ascending aorta'.

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 Aneurysm of Ascending Aorta Without Rupture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Aneurysm of Ascending Aorta Without Rupture

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Aneurysm of Ascending Aorta Without Rupture. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Non-ruptured ascending aortic aneurysm

Specialty: Cardiology

Required Elements

  • Location of aneurysm
  • Size and morphology
  • Imaging confirmation
  • Rupture status

Example Documentation

Echo reveals 5.0 cm ascending aortic aneurysm (I71.21) in patient with HTN. No dissection. Plan: Beta-blocker titration, repeat imaging in 6 months.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Enlarged aorta noted on imaging.
Good Documentation Example
4.7 cm fusiform aneurysm of ascending aorta without rupture, confirmed by CT angiogram.
Explanation
The good example specifies location, size, and rupture status, meeting documentation requirements.

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