ICD-10 Coding for Arterial Ulcer(I70.23, L97.411)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Arterial Ulcer. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Arterial Ulcer
I70.2Primary Range
Atherosclerosis of arteries of extremities
This range covers atherosclerosis with ulceration, which is the primary condition for arterial ulcers.
Non-pressure chronic ulcer of lower limb, not elsewhere classified
This range is used to specify the location and severity of the ulcer.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus with diabetic peripheral angiopathy with gangrene
Used when diabetes is a contributing factor to the ulcer.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| I70.23 | Atherosclerosis of native arteries of right leg with ulceration | Use when there is documented atherosclerosis with ulceration on the right leg. |
|
| L97.411 | Non-pressure chronic ulcer of right heel and midfoot limited to breakdown of skin | Use to specify the location and severity of the ulcer. |
|
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: How do you code an arterial ulcer?
Essential facts and insights about Arterial Ulcer
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for arterial ulcer
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Documented atherosclerosis with ulceration on the right leg.
Applicable To
- Atherosclerotic ulcer of right leg
Excludes
- Diabetic ulcers (E11.621)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ABPI <0.5
- TcPO2 <40 mmHg
- Arterial Doppler showing >50% stenosis
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect laterality documentation
- Missing arterial insufficiency evidence
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is documented and supported by clinical evidence.
L97.411 - Non-pressure chronic ulcer of right heel and midfoot limited to breakdown of skin
Use to specify the location and severity of the ulcer.
Applicable To
- Ulcer of right heel with skin breakdown
Excludes
- Pressure ulcers (L89.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Wound assessment showing skin breakdown
Coding Notes
Ensure ulcer is not pressure-related.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus with diabetic peripheral angiopathy
E11.51Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Arterial Ulcer to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I70.23.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate treatment planning, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential claim denials
Mitigation Strategy
Use templates with laterality prompts, Regular documentation audits
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation
Mitigation Strategy
Sequence diabetes code first, then I70.2x, then L97.-
Impact
Failure to sequence diabetes codes before arterial codes
Mitigation Strategy
Implement coding audits and training
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 Arterial Ulcer, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Arterial Ulcer
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Arterial Ulcer. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Vascular Surgery Note
Specialty: Vascular SurgeryRequired Elements
- Ulcer location
- Ulcer dimensions
- Wound base description
- Perfusion status
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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