Back to HomeBeta

ICD-10 Coding for Chiari Malformation Type I(Q07.00, Q07.01)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Chiari Malformation Type I. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Arnold-Chiari Malformation Type IChiari I Malformation

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Chiari Malformation Type I

Q07.0-Primary Range

Congenital malformations of the nervous system

This range includes codes for Chiari malformations, specifically Type I, with or without syringomyelia.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
Q07.00Arnold-Chiari syndrome without mention of hydrocephalusUse when Chiari I is confirmed by imaging without syringomyelia.
  • MRI showing cerebellar tonsillar herniation ≥5mm
  • Absence of syringomyelia
Q07.01Arnold-Chiari syndrome with syringomyeliaUse when Chiari I is confirmed by imaging with syringomyelia.
  • MRI showing cerebellar tonsillar herniation ≥5mm
  • Presence of syringomyelia

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 Chiari Malformation Type I

Essential facts and insights about Chiari Malformation Type I

The ICD-10 code for Chiari Malformation Type I without syringomyelia is Q07.00, and with syringomyelia is Q07.01.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for chiari malformation type inspiration

Arnold-Chiari syndrome without mention of hydrocephalus
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • MRI shows cerebellar tonsillar herniation ≥5mm without syringomyelia.

Applicable To

  • Chiari I malformation without syringomyelia

Excludes

  • Chiari II malformation (Q07.01)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • MRI showing cerebellar tonsillar herniation ≥5mm
  • Absence of syringomyelia

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using this code when syringomyelia is present.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure MRI findings are documented to support the use of this code.

Ancillary Codes

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

Syringomyelia and syringobulbia

G96.1
Use as a secondary code if syringomyelia is present.

Differential Codes

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

Arnold-Chiari syndrome with syringomyelia

Q07.01
Presence of syringomyelia confirmed by imaging.

Arnold-Chiari syndrome without mention of hydrocephalus

Q07.00
Absence of syringomyelia.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Chiari Malformation Type I to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code Q07.00.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate clinical picture., Regulatory: Potential non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Possible claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always verify MRI findings., Query provider if documentation is unclear.

Impact

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

Mitigation Strategy

Use Q07.01 if syringomyelia is confirmed by imaging.

Impact

Using Q07.00 instead of Q07.01 when syringomyelia is present.

Mitigation Strategy

Regular training on code differentiation and documentation review.

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 Chiari Malformation Type I, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Chiari Malformation Type I

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Chiari Malformation Type I. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Chiari I Malformation with Surgery

Specialty: Neurosurgery

Required Elements

  • MRI findings
  • Operative details
  • Post-operative outcomes

Example Documentation

POSTOPERATIVE DIAGNOSIS: Chiari I malformation with syringomyelia (Q07.01). PROCEDURE: Suboccipital craniectomy with C1 laminectomy.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has Chiari malformation.
Good Documentation Example
Chiari I malformation confirmed by MRI showing 7mm caudal displacement of cerebellar tonsils without syrinx.
Explanation
The good example provides specific MRI findings and excludes syringomyelia.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Chiari Malformation Type I? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

We build tools for
clinician happiness.

Learn More at Freed.ai
Back to HomeBeta

Built by Freed

Try Freed for free for 7 days.

Learn more