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ICD-10 Coding for Bronchial Wall Thickening(J98.09, J47.9)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bronchial Wall Thickening. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Bronchial ThickeningAirway Wall Thickening

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Bronchial Wall Thickening

J98-J99Primary Range

Other diseases of the respiratory system

Covers non-specific respiratory conditions including bronchial wall thickening.

Bronchiectasis

Used when bronchial wall thickening is associated with bronchiectasis.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
J98.09Other diseases of bronchus, not elsewhere classifiedUse when bronchial wall thickening is noted without specific underlying conditions like bronchiectasis.
  • CT findings of bronchial wall thickening
  • Broncho-arterial ratio not exceeding 1:1
J47.9Bronchiectasis, uncomplicatedUse when bronchial wall thickening is part of bronchiectasis.
  • Broncho-arterial ratio >1:1
  • Lack of tapering over 2 cm

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 bronchial wall thickening

Essential facts and insights about Bronchial Wall Thickening

The ICD-10 code for bronchial wall thickening is J98.09, used when no specific etiology is identified.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bronchial wall thickening

Other diseases of bronchus, not elsewhere classified
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • CT shows bronchial wall thickening without bronchiectasis.

coding Criteria

  • No evidence of bronchiectasis or other specific conditions.

Applicable To

  • Bronchial wall thickening without specific etiology

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • CT findings of bronchial wall thickening
  • Broncho-arterial ratio not exceeding 1:1

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if bronchiectasis is present

Coding Notes

  • Ensure CT findings support the use of this code.

Ancillary Codes

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

Pseudomonas infection as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B96.5
Use if sputum cultures confirm Pseudomonas infection.

Differential Codes

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

Bronchiectasis, uncomplicated

J47.9
Use when bronchial wall thickening is accompanied by bronchial dilatation.

Other diseases of bronchus, not elsewhere classified

J98.09
Use when bronchial wall thickening is isolated.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bronchial Wall Thickening to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code J98.09.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Potential for audit issues., Financial: Incorrect coding can affect reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed CT reports, Verify broncho-arterial ratios

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to lower reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use J47.9 when bronchiectasis is present.

Impact

Using J98.09 instead of J47.9 when bronchiectasis is present.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify CT findings for bronchiectasis.

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 Bronchial Wall Thickening, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Bronchial Wall Thickening

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bronchial Wall Thickening. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Bronchial Wall Thickening with Suspected Bronchiectasis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Required Elements

  • CT findings
  • Broncho-arterial ratio
  • Presence of mucus plugging

Example Documentation

CT shows bronchial wall thickening with broncho-arterial ratio of 1.3:1 in the right lower lobe.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Thickened airways seen.
Good Documentation Example
Cylindrical bronchiectasis with wall thickness 1.5 mm and BA ratio 1.2:1 in left lower lobe; no tapering over 2.5 cm.
Explanation
The good example provides specific measurements and confirms bronchiectasis.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Bronchial Wall Thickening? Ask your questions below.

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