ICD-10 Coding for Choking Episode(T17.92XA, J69.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Choking Episode. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Choking Episode
T17.2-T17.9Primary Range
Foreign body in respiratory tract
This range includes codes for foreign bodies causing choking and asphyxiation.
Other specified symptoms and signs involving the circulatory and respiratory systems
Used for symptoms like choking sensation without confirmed obstruction.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| T17.92XA | Food in respiratory tract causing asphyxiation, initial encounter | Use when choking is due to food in the respiratory tract and confirmed by imaging. |
|
| J69.0 | Aspiration pneumonia | Use when pneumonia develops following aspiration. |
|
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 choking episode
Essential facts and insights about Choking Episode
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for choking episode
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of food in respiratory tract confirmed by imaging
Applicable To
- Choking on food
Excludes
- Gastric contents causing asphyxiation
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging or endoscopy confirming retained food
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect use without imaging confirmation
Coding Notes
- Ensure imaging confirms the presence of a foreign body.
J69.0 - Aspiration pneumonia
Use when pneumonia develops following aspiration.
Applicable To
- Pneumonia due to aspiration
Excludes
- Pneumonia due to other causes
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CXR showing infiltrates
- History of aspiration event
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation supports aspiration as the cause of pneumonia.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Choking sensation
R09.89Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Choking Episode to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code T17.92XA.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate representation of patient's condition, Regulatory: Potential non-compliance with coding guidelines, Financial: May affect reimbursement if not coded correctly
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the cause of dysphagia, Use appropriate codes for underlying conditions
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: May result in compliance issues during audits., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Confirm the presence of a foreign body with imaging and use T17 codes.
Impact
Incorrect sequencing of principal diagnosis can lead to audit issues.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation clearly supports the chosen principal diagnosis.
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 Choking Episode, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Choking Episode
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Choking Episode. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Choking Episode with Aspiration Pneumonia
Specialty: PulmonologyRequired Elements
- Event timing
- Type of aspirate
- Interventions performed
- Residual effects
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Choking Episode? Ask your questions below.