ICD-10 Coding for Atherosclerosis of Arteries of Extremities(I70.20, I70.21)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Atherosclerosis of Arteries of Extremities. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Atherosclerosis of Arteries of Extremities
I70.2-I70.25Primary Range
Atherosclerosis of arteries of extremities
This range covers the atherosclerosis of native arteries of extremities, including specific conditions like claudication, rest pain, ulceration, and gangrene.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| I70.20 | Atherosclerosis of native arteries of extremities, unspecified | Use when atherosclerosis is confirmed but specific symptoms or laterality are not documented. |
|
| I70.21 | Atherosclerosis of native arteries of extremities with intermittent claudication | Use when claudication is present and documented with walking distance. |
|
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 extremities
Essential facts and insights about Atherosclerosis of Arteries of Extremities
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for atherosclerosis of arteries of extremities
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- ABI <0.9 or imaging confirming stenosis
documentation Criteria
- Lack of specific symptoms or laterality
Applicable To
- Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
Excludes
- Atherosclerosis of bypass graft of extremities (I70.3-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ABI <0.9
- Angiography showing stenosis
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of under-documentation if laterality and symptoms are not specified.
Coding Notes
- Ensure to specify laterality and symptom severity for accurate coding.
I70.21 - Atherosclerosis of native arteries of extremities with intermittent claudication
Use when claudication is present and documented with walking distance.
Applicable To
- Intermittent claudication
Excludes
- Claudication due to other causes (e.g., neurogenic)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Claudication distance documented
- Relief with rest
Coding Notes
Document claudication distance and relief with rest.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Non-pressure chronic ulcer of lower limb
L97.-Differential 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 Arteries of Extremities to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I70.20.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate treatment planning, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential for denied claims
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the side affected, Use templates to ensure completeness
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases the accuracy of health records.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document laterality and specific symptoms to use the most specific code.
Impact
High risk of audit if unspecified codes are used when specific codes are applicable.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports the use of specific codes.
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 Arteries of Extremities, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Atherosclerosis of Arteries of Extremities
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Atherosclerosis of Arteries of Extremities. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Patient with atherosclerosis and ulceration
Specialty: Vascular SurgeryRequired Elements
- Ulcer location and size
- ABI results
- Imaging findings
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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