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ICD-10 Coding for Breast Reconstruction(N65.0, T85.41XA)

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

Also known as:

Breast Reconstructive SurgeryPost-Mastectomy Reconstruction

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Breast Reconstruction

19316-19396Primary Range

CPT codes for breast reconstruction procedures

These codes cover various breast reconstruction techniques including implants and flap procedures.

ICD-10-PCS codes for breast reconstruction

These codes are used for procedural coding in hospital settings for breast reconstruction.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
N65.0Deformity of reconstructed breastUse when there is a documented deformity of the breast post-reconstruction.
  • Documented deformity post-reconstruction
  • Clinical assessment indicating deformity
T85.41XABreakdown (mechanical) of breast prosthesis and implant, initial encounterUse when there is confirmed mechanical breakdown of a breast implant.
  • MRI or imaging confirming rupture
  • Clinical symptoms of implant failure

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 breast reconstruction

Essential facts and insights about Breast Reconstruction

The ICD-10 code for breast reconstruction varies based on the procedure, such as N65.0 for deformity of reconstructed breast.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for breast reconstruction

Deformity of reconstructed breast
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Deformity observed post-reconstruction

Applicable To

  • Deformity post-reconstruction

Excludes

  • Congenital deformity of breast (Q83.8)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented deformity post-reconstruction
  • Clinical assessment indicating deformity

Code-Specific Risks

  • Ensure deformity is post-reconstruction and not congenital.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the deformity is related to reconstruction.

Differential Codes

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

Other congenital malformations of breast

Q83.8
Use for congenital conditions, not post-surgical deformities.

Infection and inflammatory reaction due to internal prosthetic device, implant and graft, initial encounter

T85.79XA
Use for infection-related issues, not mechanical breakdown.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Breast Reconstruction to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N65.0.

Impact

Clinical: Ambiguity in patient care records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify left, right, or bilateral in notes.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data on surgical procedures.

Mitigation Strategy

Use 13101-13102 for minor scar revisions.

Impact

Incorrectly separating bundled procedures.

Mitigation Strategy

Review payer-specific bundling rules.

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 Breast Reconstruction, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Breast Reconstruction

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

Delayed breast reconstruction with DIEP flap

Specialty: Plastic Surgery

Required Elements

  • Indication for surgery
  • Procedure details
  • Medical necessity

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient presents for breast reconstruction.
Good Documentation Example
Delayed left breast reconstruction via DIEP flap performed 18 months post-unilateral mastectomy.
Explanation
The good example includes specific procedure details and timing.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Breast Reconstruction? Ask your questions below.

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