ICD-10 Coding for Arachnoid Cyst(G93.0, Q04.6)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Arachnoid Cyst. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Arachnoid Cyst
G93.0Primary Range
Cerebral cysts, including acquired arachnoid cysts
This range includes acquired arachnoid cysts, which are the most common type encountered in clinical practice.
Congenital cerebral cysts
This range is used for congenital arachnoid cysts, which are present at birth and require specific documentation.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| G93.0 | Cerebral cysts (acquired arachnoid) | Use when documentation specifies an acquired arachnoid cyst with appropriate imaging and symptom correlation. |
|
| Q04.6 | Congenital cerebral cysts | Use when documentation specifies a congenital origin. |
|
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 arachnoid cyst
Essential facts and insights about Arachnoid Cyst
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for arachnoid cyst
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- MRI findings consistent with arachnoid cyst
documentation Criteria
- Documentation specifies 'acquired arachnoid cyst'
Applicable To
- Acquired arachnoid cysts
Excludes
- Congenital cerebral cysts (Q04.6)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing CSF signal intensity
- Symptoms linked to cyst location
Code-Specific Risks
- Mistaking congenital cysts for acquired
- Overcoding asymptomatic cysts
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'acquired' to use G93.0.
Q04.6 - Congenital cerebral cysts
Use when documentation specifies a congenital origin.
Applicable To
- Congenital arachnoid cysts
Excludes
- Acquired arachnoid cysts (G93.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Prenatal or neonatal diagnosis
- Developmental anomalies
Coding Notes
Requires explicit 'congenital' documentation.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Hydrocephalus, unspecified
G91.9Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Arachnoid Cyst to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G93.0.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis and treatment planning, Regulatory: Potential coding audits and penalties, Financial: Denied claims due to incorrect coding
Mitigation Strategy
Educate providers on documentation requirements, Use checklists for clinical documentation
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data recording.
Mitigation Strategy
Use Q04.6 for congenital cysts.
Impact
Incorrect use of G93.0 for congenital cysts
Mitigation Strategy
Implement documentation audits to verify cyst type
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 Arachnoid Cyst, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Arachnoid Cyst
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Arachnoid Cyst. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Neurosurgery Progress Note
Specialty: NeurosurgeryRequired Elements
- Location of cyst
- Size and mass effect
- Symptoms
- Imaging findings
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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