ICD-10 Coding for Aortic Dilatation(I77.810, I71.21)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Aortic Dilatation. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Aortic Dilatation
I71-I77Primary Range
Diseases of arteries, arterioles, and capillaries
Includes codes for aortic dilatation, ectasia, and aneurysms.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| I77.810 | Thoracic aortic ectasia | Use for thoracic aortic dilatation <3 cm termed as ectasia. |
|
| I71.21 | Aneurysm of ascending aorta, without rupture | Use for ascending aortic aneurysm ≥3 cm without rupture. |
|
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 aortic dilatation
Essential facts and insights about Aortic Dilatation
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for aortic dilatation
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Dilation <3 cm on imaging
Applicable To
- Mild aortic dilatation
Excludes
- Aortic aneurysm (I71.x)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging shows dilation <3 cm
- No dissection present
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusion with aneurysm codes
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'ectasia' and measures <3 cm.
I71.21 - Aneurysm of ascending aorta, without rupture
Use for ascending aortic aneurysm ≥3 cm without rupture.
Applicable To
- Aortic aneurysm ≥3 cm
Excludes
- Ruptured aortic aneurysm (I71.01)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging confirms dilation ≥3 cm
- No rupture present
Coding Notes
Document exact size and location of aneurysm.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Marfan syndrome
Q87.4Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Aortic Dilatation to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I77.810.
Impact
Clinical: Misclassification of condition severity, Regulatory: Increased audit risk, Financial: Potential reimbursement issues
Mitigation Strategy
Use standardized templates, Educate clinicians on documentation requirements
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment, Compliance: Potential audit risk, Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data
Mitigation Strategy
Verify size and terminology in documentation.
Impact
Using aneurysm codes for ectasia can trigger audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies 'ectasia' with size <3 cm.
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 Dilatation, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Aortic Dilatation
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Aortic Dilatation. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Aortic dilatation assessment
Specialty: CardiologyRequired Elements
- Location of dilatation
- Maximum diameter
- Measurement method
- Comparison to prior studies
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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