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ICD-10 Coding for Calcification of Aorta(I70.0)

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

Also known as:

Aortic CalcificationAtherosclerosis of Aorta

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Calcification of Aorta

I70-I79Primary Range

Diseases of arteries, arterioles and capillaries

This range includes codes for atherosclerosis and other arterial diseases, relevant for coding calcification of the aorta.

Nonrheumatic aortic valve disorders

This range is relevant for distinguishing aortic valve calcification from aortic wall calcification.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for calcification of aorta

Essential facts and insights about Calcification of Aorta

The ICD-10 code for calcification of the aorta due to atherosclerosis is I70.0, requiring specific documentation.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for calcification of aorta

Atherosclerosis of aorta
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Imaging shows atherosclerotic calcification in the aorta.

documentation Criteria

  • Specific aortic segment and calcification type documented.

Applicable To

  • Calcification of aorta due to atherosclerosis

Excludes

  • Aortic valve disorders (I35.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging confirmation of atherosclerotic calcification
  • Documentation of specific aortic segment involved

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusing with aortic valve calcification

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies atherosclerosis to avoid miscoding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Essential hypertension

I10
Use if hypertension is documented as a risk factor.

Hyperlipidemia, unspecified

E78.5
Use if lipid abnormalities contribute to calcification.

Differential Codes

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

Nonrheumatic aortic valve stenosis

I35.0
Use for calcification restricted to the aortic valve, not the wall.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Calcification of Aorta to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I70.0.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to incorrect treatment focus., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify calcification location, Use correct code for valve involvement

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Impacts accuracy of health records.

Mitigation Strategy

Require documentation of atherosclerotic nature.

Impact

Lack of imaging evidence for atherosclerotic calcification.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure imaging reports are attached to claims.

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 Calcification of Aorta, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Calcification of Aorta

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

Aortic calcification with hypertension

Specialty: Cardiology

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Imaging results
  • Risk factors
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient with hypertension and hyperlipidemia presents with exertional dyspnea. CT angiography reveals calcific atherosclerosis of the ascending aorta with an Agatston score of 1450. Plan includes aggressive lipid management.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Aortic calcification noted.
Good Documentation Example
Severe calcific atherosclerosis of descending thoracic aorta (CT calcium score 1,200), contributing to pulse pressure 80 mmHg.
Explanation
The good example provides specific location, severity, and clinical impact.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Calcification of Aorta? Ask your questions below.

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