ICD-10 Coding for Ascites(K70.31, R18.8)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Ascites. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Ascites
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K70.31 | Alcoholic cirrhosis of liver with ascites | Use when ascites is due to alcoholic cirrhosis. |
|
| R18.8 | Other ascites | Use for ascites not related to liver disease. |
|
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 ascites
Essential facts and insights about Ascites
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for ascites
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Ascites with documented alcoholic cirrhosis
Applicable To
- Alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites
Excludes
- Alcoholic hepatitis with ascites (K70.11)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of alcoholic cirrhosis
- Presence of ascites
- Evidence of alcohol use
Code-Specific Risks
- Ensure documentation of alcohol use to support coding.
Coding Notes
- Primary code for ascites due to alcoholic liver disease.
R18.8 - Other ascites
Use for ascites not related to liver disease.
Applicable To
- Ascites not otherwise specified
Excludes
- Ascites due to liver disease (K70.31, K74.60)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- SAAG <1.1 g/dL
- Imaging confirming non-portal hypertension cause
Coding Notes
Secondary code for non-liver-related ascites.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Long term (current) use of anticoagulants
Z79.891Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Ascites to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K70.31.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis of ascites etiology., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential loss of reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Include SAAG levels in documentation., Ensure lab results are available in patient records.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment may affect reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document and code the underlying condition causing ascites.
Impact
Failure to document the cause of ascites can lead to audit findings.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure thorough documentation of ascites etiology and related clinical 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 Ascites, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Ascites
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Ascites. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Chief complaint
- Assessment
- Plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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