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ICD-10 Coding for Aortic Dissection(I71.010, I71.03)

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

Also known as:

Dissecting AneurysmAortic Rupture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Aortic Dissection

I71.00-I71.9Primary Range

Aortic dissection and aneurysm codes

This range includes specific codes for different types and locations of aortic dissections.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
I71.010Dissection of ascending aortaUse when imaging confirms dissection in the ascending aorta.
  • Imaging confirmation of dissection in the ascending aorta
I71.03Dissection of abdominal aortaUse when imaging confirms dissection in the abdominal aorta.
  • Imaging confirmation of dissection in the abdominal aorta

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 dissection

Essential facts and insights about Aortic Dissection

The ICD-10 code for aortic dissection is I71.010 for ascending aorta and I71.03 for abdominal aorta.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for aortic dissection

Dissection of ascending aorta
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Imaging shows dissection flap in ascending aorta

Applicable To

  • Ascending aortic dissection

Excludes

  • Aortic aneurysm without dissection

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging confirmation of dissection in the ascending aorta

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misidentifying the site of dissection

Coding Notes

  • Ensure precise documentation of the aortic segment involved.

Ancillary Codes

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

Dissection of aortic branch

I77.81
Use for dissection extending into aortic branches.

Differential Codes

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

Dissection of abdominal aorta

I71.03
Use when dissection is confirmed in the abdominal aorta.

Dissection of ascending aorta

I71.010
Use when dissection is confirmed in the ascending aorta.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Aortic Dissection to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I71.010.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit failures., Financial: Potential loss of reimbursement due to incorrect DRG.

Mitigation Strategy

Always verify imaging reports, Consult with radiology for precise location

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect site coding can lead to improper DRG assignment., Compliance: May result in coding audits and compliance issues., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of clinical data and outcomes.

Mitigation Strategy

Focus on documenting the exact anatomical site of the dissection.

Impact

Failure to document the specific site of dissection can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement a checklist for documentation of imaging findings.

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

Documentation Templates for Aortic Dissection

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

Emergency Department Presentation

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Chief complaint
  • Physical exam findings
  • Imaging results
  • Blood pressure differentials

Example Documentation

CHIEF COMPLAINT: Sudden-onset tearing chest pain. PHYSICAL EXAM: BP differential noted, new diastolic murmur. IMAGING: CTA confirms dissection in ascending aorta.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient with chest pain, possible dissection.
Good Documentation Example
Patient presents with tearing chest pain, CTA confirms ascending aortic dissection.
Explanation
The good example provides specific imaging confirmation and symptom description.

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

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