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ICD-10 Coding for Bronchoscopy(0BC68ZZ, 31622)

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

Also known as:

Bronchoscopic examinationEndoscopic bronchial examination

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Bronchoscopy

0BC_8ZZPrimary Range

ICD-10-PCS codes for bronchoscopy procedures

This range includes codes for various bronchoscopy procedures, focusing on the specific bronchus or lung lobe involved.

CPT codes for bronchoscopy procedures

These codes cover diagnostic and therapeutic bronchoscopy procedures, including ancillary services like EBUS and navigation.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
0BC68ZZExtirpation of matter from right lower lobe bronchus, via natural or artificial opening endoscopicUse when performing a therapeutic bronchoscopy to remove obstructions from the right lower lobe bronchus.
  • Documentation of specific bronchus involved
  • Description of material removed
31622Diagnostic bronchoscopyUse for diagnostic purposes when no therapeutic intervention is performed.
  • Indication for diagnostic evaluation
  • Findings 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 bronchoscopy

Essential facts and insights about Bronchoscopy

The ICD-10-PCS code for bronchoscopy procedures is 0BC68ZZ for extirpation from the right lower lobe bronchus.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bronchoscopy

Extirpation of matter from right lower lobe bronchus, via natural or artificial opening endoscopic
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of mucus plugs or foreign body in the right lower lobe bronchus

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed procedure note specifying bronchus and material

Applicable To

  • Removal of mucus plugs
  • Foreign body removal

Excludes

  • Irrigation procedures

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documentation of specific bronchus involved
  • Description of material removed

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding as lung procedure
  • Omitting specific bronchus documentation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the bronchus and material removed.

Ancillary Codes

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

Computer-assisted navigation for bronchoscopy

31627
Use when navigation technology is employed during the procedure.

Differential Codes

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

Extirpation of matter from left lower lobe bronchus, via natural or artificial opening endoscopic

0BCB8ZZ
Use for left lower lobe bronchus procedures; differentiate based on bronchus location.

Therapeutic bronchoscopy for aspiration

31645
Use when the primary purpose is therapeutic aspiration.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bronchoscopy to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code 0BC68ZZ.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate clinical records, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential reimbursement issues

Mitigation Strategy

Review procedure notes for completeness, Use templates to ensure all elements are documented

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment, Compliance: Potential audit flags, Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies whether the procedure is endobronchial or transbronchial.

Impact

Misclassification of bronchial procedures as lung procedures.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate staff on the importance of specifying bronchus vs. lung in documentation.

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

Documentation Templates for Bronchoscopy

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

Therapeutic bronchoscopy for mucus plug removal

Specialty: Pulmonology

Required Elements

  • Procedure indication
  • Bronchus involved
  • Material removed
  • Complications

Example Documentation

Flexible bronchoscopy performed for mucus plug removal in the right lower lobe bronchus using a 3.6mm suction catheter.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Bronchoscopy performed; secretions cleared.
Good Documentation Example
Flexible bronchoscopy: Thick mucopurulent plugs aspirated from right lower lobe bronchus using 3.6mm suction catheter; 80 mL saline instilled, 20 mL returned.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the bronchus involved and the material removed, which is essential for accurate coding.

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

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