ICD-10 Coding for Atherosclerosis of the Carotid Artery(I65.22, I70.90)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Atherosclerosis of the Carotid Artery. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Atherosclerosis of the Carotid Artery
I65.2-I65.29Primary Range
Occlusion and stenosis of carotid artery
This range includes specific codes for stenosis of the carotid artery, which is a common manifestation of atherosclerosis.
Atherosclerosis
This range covers generalized atherosclerosis, which may be used when specific stenosis is not documented.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| I65.22 | Occlusion and stenosis of left carotid artery | Use when there is documented stenosis of the left carotid artery with imaging confirmation. |
|
| I70.90 | Generalized atherosclerosis | Use when atherosclerosis is present without specific stenosis documented. |
|
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 atherosclerosis of carotid artery
Essential facts and insights about Atherosclerosis of the Carotid Artery
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for atherosclerosis carotid artery
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Documented stenosis of ≥50% on imaging
documentation Criteria
- Specify laterality and percentage of stenosis
Applicable To
- Atherosclerotic stenosis of left carotid artery
Excludes
- Traumatic stenosis of carotid artery
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing ≥50% stenosis
- Symptoms such as TIA or stroke
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if laterality is not specified
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is documented to avoid using unspecified codes.
I70.90 - Generalized atherosclerosis
Use when atherosclerosis is present without specific stenosis documented.
Applicable To
- Diffuse atherosclerosis without specific stenosis
Excludes
- Specific stenosis of arteries
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing diffuse plaque without significant stenosis
Coding Notes
Ensure that specific stenosis is not documented before using this code.
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
E11.51Differential 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 Atherosclerosis of the Carotid Artery to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I65.22.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential for denied claims
Mitigation Strategy
Use standardized templates, Double-check imaging reports
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential underpayment due to lack of specificity, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Decreased accuracy in clinical data
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific stenosis codes when imaging confirms stenosis.
Impact
Audits may focus on whether stenosis percentage and laterality are documented.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement thorough documentation practices and regular audits.
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 Atherosclerosis of the Carotid Artery, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Atherosclerosis of the Carotid Artery
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Atherosclerosis of the Carotid Artery. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Carotid artery stenosis evaluation
Specialty: Vascular SurgeryRequired Elements
- Symptoms
- Imaging findings
- Stenosis percentage
- Laterality
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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