ICD-10 Coding for Cirrhosis with Ascites(K70.31, K74.6, R18.8)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cirrhosis 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 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 cirrhosis is due to alcohol and ascites is present. |
|
| K74.6 | Other and unspecified cirrhosis of liver | Use for non-alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites. |
|
| R18.8 | Other ascites | Use as an ancillary code with cirrhosis codes. |
|
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 with ascites
Essential facts and insights about Cirrhosis with Ascites
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cirrhosis with ascites
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Patient has a history of alcohol use and presents with ascites.
Applicable To
- Alcoholic liver disease with ascites
Excludes
- Alcoholic cirrhosis without ascites (K70.30)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of alcoholic cirrhosis
- Presence of ascites confirmed by SAAG ≥1.1 g/dL
Code-Specific Risks
- Ensure documentation specifies ascites to avoid undercoding.
Coding Notes
- Ensure alcohol use is documented.
K74.6 - Other and unspecified cirrhosis of liver
Use for non-alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites.
Applicable To
- Non-alcoholic cirrhosis
Excludes
- Alcoholic cirrhosis (K70.3-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of cirrhosis
- Ascites confirmed by SAAG ≥1.1 g/dL
Coding Notes
Link with R18.8 for ascites.
R18.8 - Other ascites
Use as an ancillary code with cirrhosis codes.
Applicable To
- Ascites not otherwise specified
Excludes
- Malignant ascites (R18.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Ascitic fluid analysis showing SAAG ≥1.1 g/dL
Coding Notes
Always link with a cirrhosis code.
Differential 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 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: Inaccurate diagnosis representation., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the cause of cirrhosis., Use specific codes for alcoholic vs. non-alcoholic cirrhosis.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to underpayment due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Always pair R18.8 with a primary cirrhosis code like K74.6.
Impact
Incorrect coding of cirrhosis etiology and ascites.
Mitigation Strategy
Regular audits and coder education.
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 with Ascites, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Cirrhosis with Ascites
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cirrhosis with Ascites. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Hepatology Clinic Visit
Specialty: HepatologyRequired Elements
- Cirrhosis etiology
- Ascites confirmation
- Management plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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