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ICD-10 Coding for Aortic Aneurysm(I71.1, I71.3)

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

Also known as:

Aortic dilationAortic ectasia

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Aortic Aneurysm

I71.0-I71.9Primary Range

Aortic aneurysm and dissection

This range includes all codes related to aortic aneurysms, specifying location and rupture status.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
I71.1Thoracic aortic aneurysm, rupturedUse when a thoracic aortic aneurysm is confirmed to be ruptured.
  • CT angiography confirming rupture
  • Clinical symptoms of acute chest pain
I71.3Abdominal aortic aneurysm, rupturedUse when an abdominal aortic aneurysm is confirmed to be ruptured.
  • CT angiography showing rupture
  • Symptoms of acute abdominal pain

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysm

Essential facts and insights about Aortic Aneurysm

The ICD-10 code for a ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysm is I71.1, used when rupture is confirmed.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for aortic aneurysm

Thoracic aortic aneurysm, ruptured
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Confirmed rupture via imaging

documentation Criteria

  • Explicit mention of rupture in clinical notes

Applicable To

  • Ruptured aneurysm of ascending aorta
  • Ruptured aneurysm of aortic arch

Excludes

  • Aortic dissection (I71.0)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • CT angiography confirming rupture
  • Clinical symptoms of acute chest pain

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification of rupture status
  • Omission of underlying conditions

Coding Notes

  • Ensure rupture status is clearly documented to avoid incorrect coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Atherosclerosis of aorta

I70.1
Use if atherosclerosis is present and contributes to the aneurysm.

Syphilitic aneurysm of aorta

A52.01
Use if syphilis is the underlying cause of the aneurysm.

Differential Codes

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

Dissection of aorta

I71.0
Dissection involves a tear in the aortic wall, whereas aneurysm involves dilation.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm, without rupture

I71.4
Use I71.4 if there is no evidence of rupture.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Aortic Aneurysm to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I71.1.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Increases risk of non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potentially affects reimbursement rates.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure rupture status is documented in every case., Use structured templates for documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Increases risk of audit failures., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies the exact location and rupture status of the aneurysm.

Impact

Failure to document rupture status can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement structured documentation templates that require rupture status.

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

Documentation Templates for Aortic Aneurysm

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

Aortic aneurysm evaluation

Specialty: Vascular Surgery

Required Elements

  • Location of aneurysm
  • Rupture status
  • Imaging findings
  • Etiology

Example Documentation

Patient presents with a 5.6 cm infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm without rupture, confirmed by CTA.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Aortic aneurysm noted.
Good Documentation Example
5.6 cm infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm without rupture, confirmed by CTA.
Explanation
The good example provides specific location, size, and rupture status, which are essential for accurate coding.

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

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