ICD-10 Coding for Cirrhosis of Liver with Ascites(K70.31, R18.8)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cirrhosis of Liver with Ascites. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Cirrhosis of Liver with Ascites
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K70.31 | Alcoholic cirrhosis of liver with ascites | Use when the etiology of cirrhosis is confirmed as alcohol-related and ascites is present. |
|
| R18.8 | Other ascites | Use when ascites is present without a documented link to cirrhosis. |
|
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 cirrhosis of liver with ascites
Essential facts and insights about Cirrhosis of Liver with Ascites
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cirrhosis of liver with ascites
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- AST:ALT ratio ≥1.3 supports alcoholic etiology.
documentation Criteria
- Explicit mention of alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites.
Applicable To
- Alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites
Excludes
- Non-alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites
Clinical Validation Requirements
- AST:ALT ratio ≥1.3
- Ultrasound showing cirrhotic liver morphology
- SAAG >1.1 g/dL
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if alcohol etiology is not documented
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies alcohol as the cause of cirrhosis.
R18.8 - Other ascites
Use when ascites is present without a documented link to cirrhosis.
Applicable To
- Ascites not specified as due to cirrhosis
Excludes
- Ascites due to cirrhosis (K70.31)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- SAAG <1.1 g/dL
- Imaging showing non-cirrhotic ascites
Coding Notes
Ensure ascites is not linked to cirrhosis before using this code.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Chronic viral hepatitis C
B18.2Differential 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 Cirrhosis of Liver with Ascites to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K70.31.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific terms like 'alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites'., Ensure documentation links ascites to cirrhosis.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement due to incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data on liver disease etiology.
Mitigation Strategy
Query provider to specify etiology; use K70.31 if confirmed.
Impact
Failure to document the cause of cirrhosis can lead to incorrect coding.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all documentation specifies the etiology of cirrhosis.
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 Cirrhosis of Liver with Ascites, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Cirrhosis of Liver with Ascites
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cirrhosis of Liver with Ascites. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Hepatology Progress Note
Specialty: HepatologyRequired Elements
- Etiology of cirrhosis
- SAAG value
- Imaging findings
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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