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ICD-10 Coding for Carotid Artery Aneurysm(I72.0)

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

Also known as:

Extracranial Carotid AneurysmCervical Carotid Aneurysm

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Carotid Artery Aneurysm

I72.0-I72.9Primary Range

Aneurysm and dissection of other arteries

This range includes codes for aneurysms of the carotid artery, which is the primary focus of this documentation.

Cerebral aneurysm, nonruptured

This code is used for intracranial aneurysms, which must be differentiated from extracranial carotid aneurysms.

Dissection of carotid artery

This code is used for carotid artery dissections, which must be distinguished from aneurysms.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for carotid artery aneurysm

Essential facts and insights about Carotid Artery Aneurysm

The ICD-10 code for a carotid artery aneurysm is I72.0, used for extracranial aneurysms.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for carotid artery aneurysm

Aneurysm of carotid artery
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Aneurysm confirmed by imaging in the carotid artery

documentation Criteria

  • Documentation specifies extracranial location

Applicable To

  • Cirsoid aneurysm
  • False aneurysm
  • Ruptured aneurysm

Excludes

  • Aortic aneurysm (I71.-)
  • Dissection of carotid artery (I77.71)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging confirmation of aneurysm
  • Documentation of location (common vs. internal carotid artery)
  • Morphology (saccular vs. fusiform)

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect use for intracranial aneurysms
  • Failure to specify laterality

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the exact location and morphology of the aneurysm.

Ancillary Codes

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

Cerebral infarction, unspecified

I63.9
Use if cerebral infarction is due to carotid aneurysm.

Transient ischemic attack, unspecified

G45.9
Use if TIA is linked to the aneurysm.

Differential Codes

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

Cerebral aneurysm, nonruptured

I67.1
Use for intracranial aneurysms, not extracranial.

Dissection of carotid artery

I77.71
Use when dissection is documented instead of aneurysm.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Carotid Artery Aneurysm to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I72.0.

Impact

Clinical: Ambiguity in treatment planning., Regulatory: Potential for coding audits., Financial: Risk of claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify right or left in documentation., Use templates to ensure completeness.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use I67.1 for intracranial aneurysms.

Impact

Using I72.0 for intracranial aneurysms.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate coders on the difference between extracranial and intracranial aneurysms.

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 Carotid Artery Aneurysm, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Carotid Artery Aneurysm

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

Preoperative Documentation

Specialty: Vascular Surgery

Required Elements

  • Location of aneurysm
  • Size and morphology
  • Planned procedure

Example Documentation

Pre-op: 4.1 cm fusiform aneurysm of left common carotid artery with mural thrombus. Plan: Open surgical repair with interposition graft.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Carotid aneurysm noted.
Good Documentation Example
3.2 cm saccular aneurysm of right internal carotid artery at C2 vertebral level, confirmed by CTA.
Explanation
The good example provides specific location, size, and imaging confirmation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Carotid Artery Aneurysm? Ask your questions below.

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