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ICD-10 Coding for Dilated Aortic Root(I77.810, I71.21)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Dilated Aortic Root. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Aortic Root DilatationAscending Aorta Dilatation

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Dilated Aortic Root

I77.8-I77.9Primary Range

Other specified disorders of arteries and arterioles

This range includes codes for thoracic aortic ectasia, which is the primary condition described as dilated aortic root.

Aortic aneurysm and dissection

This range includes codes for aortic aneurysms, which are relevant when the dilation meets criteria for aneurysm.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
I77.810Thoracic aortic ectasiaUse when the aortic root is dilated but does not meet the criteria for an aneurysm.
  • Aortic root diameter <5.0 cm
  • Absence of dissection or rupture
  • Stable size over time
I71.21Aneurysm of ascending aorta without ruptureUse when the aortic root or ascending aorta is described as an aneurysm.
  • Aortic diameter ≥5.0 cm
  • Rapid growth ≥0.5 cm/year

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 dilated aortic root

Essential facts and insights about Dilated Aortic Root

The ICD-10 code for a dilated aortic root is I77.810, used for thoracic aortic ectasia.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for dilated aortic root

Thoracic aortic ectasia
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Aortic root diameter <5.0 cm

documentation Criteria

  • Stable size over time

Applicable To

  • Aortic root dilatation
  • Ascending aorta dilatation

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Aortic root diameter <5.0 cm
  • Absence of dissection or rupture
  • Stable size over time

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusing ectasia with aneurysm
  • Not specifying the exact location

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the exact measurements and imaging method used.

Ancillary Codes

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

Congenital bicuspid aortic valve

Q23.1
Use when a bicuspid aortic valve is present.

Differential Codes

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

Aneurysm of ascending aorta without rupture

I71.21
Use when the diameter is ≥5.0 cm or rapid growth is documented.

Thoracic aortic ectasia

I77.810
Use when the dilation does not meet aneurysm criteria.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Dilated Aortic Root to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I77.810.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Could result in coding audits and compliance issues., Financial: Affects reimbursement due to incorrect DRG assignment.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the specific location of the aortic dilation., Use standardized templates to ensure completeness.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to improper DRG assignment., Compliance: May result in audit issues if documentation does not support the code used., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of clinical data and patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify the documented size and terminology used by the provider.

Impact

Using aneurysm codes without supporting documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all documentation includes specific measurements and terminology.

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 Dilated Aortic Root, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Dilated Aortic Root

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Dilated Aortic Root. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Cardiology Progress Note

Specialty: Cardiology

Required Elements

  • Location
  • Diameter
  • Comparison
  • Symptoms
  • Associated conditions

Example Documentation

**Aortic Root Assessment** - Location: Aortic root - Diameter: 4.6 cm (CT angiography, external diameter) - Comparison: Increased from 4.2 cm (2024) - Symptoms: None - Associated conditions: Bicuspid aortic valve (Q23.1) - Plan: Annual surveillance imaging; beta-blocker initiated.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Aortic root dilation noted on echo.
Good Documentation Example
Thoracic aortic ectasia of the aortic root measuring 4.3 cm by CT angiography (inner-edge method), unchanged from prior study. No evidence of dissection. Patient with bicuspid aortic valve (Q23.1).
Explanation
The good example provides specific measurements, imaging method, and associated conditions, supporting accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Dilated Aortic Root? Ask your questions below.

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