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ICD-10 Coding for Bilateral Mastectomy(Z90.13)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bilateral Mastectomy. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Double MastectomyBilateral Breast Removal

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Bilateral Mastectomy

Z90.1-Z90.13Primary Range

Acquired absence of breast and nipple

This range includes codes for the history of mastectomy, specifically Z90.13 for bilateral mastectomy.

Malignant neoplasm of breast

Used when coding for active breast cancer cases requiring mastectomy.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for bilateral mastectomy

Essential facts and insights about Bilateral Mastectomy

The ICD-10 code for bilateral mastectomy is Z90.13, used for patients with a history of bilateral breast removal.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for bilateral mastectomy

Acquired absence of bilateral breasts and nipples
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Patient has undergone bilateral mastectomy with no residual breast tissue.

documentation Criteria

  • Operative report specifies bilateral procedure and absence of breast tissue.

Applicable To

  • History of bilateral mastectomy

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Pathology report confirming absence of breast tissue
  • Surgical notes indicating bilateral procedure

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding unilateral mastectomy as bilateral

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation clearly states 'bilateral mastectomy' and includes dates of procedures.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Malignant neoplasm of breast

C50.xxx
Use when documenting active breast cancer requiring mastectomy.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Acquired absence of right breast and nipple

Z90.11
Use when only the right breast has been removed.

Acquired absence of left breast and nipple

Z90.12
Use when only the left breast has been removed.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bilateral Mastectomy to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code Z90.13.

Impact

Clinical: Misrepresentation of procedure scope, Regulatory: Potential audit issues, Financial: Reduced reimbursement

Mitigation Strategy

Review billing guidelines for modifier usage, Ensure documentation supports bilateral procedure

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Always use Z90.13 for bilateral mastectomy history.

Impact

Incorrect use of modifiers can trigger audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify payer-specific guidelines for modifier usage.

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 Bilateral Mastectomy, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Bilateral Mastectomy

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bilateral Mastectomy. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Bilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction

Specialty: Surgical Oncology

Required Elements

  • Procedure type
  • Laterality
  • Reconstruction details
  • Pathology findings

Example Documentation

Patient underwent bilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction using implants. Pathology confirmed no residual breast tissue.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Mastectomy done.
Good Documentation Example
Bilateral mastectomy performed on 01/2024 with immediate reconstruction. Pathology confirmed absence of breast tissue.
Explanation
The good example specifies laterality, date, and reconstruction details, providing complete information.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Bilateral Mastectomy? Ask your questions below.

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