ICD-10 Coding for Dilated Ascending Aorta(I77.810, I71.21)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Dilated Ascending Aorta. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Dilated Ascending Aorta
I71-I77Primary Range
Diseases of the arteries, arterioles, and capillaries
This range includes codes for conditions affecting the aorta, including ectasia and aneurysms.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| I77.810 | Thoracic aortic ectasia | Use when the aorta is dilated but does not meet criteria for an aneurysm. |
|
| I71.21 | Ascending aortic aneurysm, without rupture | Use when the aorta is dilated to aneurysmal proportions. |
|
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 ascending aorta
Essential facts and insights about Dilated Ascending Aorta
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for dilated ascending aorta
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Diameter 40-44mm on imaging
documentation Criteria
- Detailed imaging report specifying diameter and location
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Diameter 40-44mm on CT/TTE
- Asymptomatic or incidental finding
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusing ectasia with aneurysm
- Incorrectly coding as I71.2 when specific location is known
Coding Notes
- Ensure precise measurement documentation to differentiate between ectasia and aneurysm.
I71.21 - Ascending aortic aneurysm, without rupture
Use when the aorta is dilated to aneurysmal proportions.
Applicable To
- Aneurysm of ascending aorta
Excludes
- Ruptured aortic aneurysm (I71.1)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Diameter ≥45mm on imaging
- Surgical consult note
Coding Notes
Document rupture status clearly to ensure accurate coding.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
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 Dilated Ascending Aorta to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I77.810.
Impact
Clinical: Potential misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Denied claims due to insufficient documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific measurements, Detail location and severity
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment affecting reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient care.
Mitigation Strategy
Use I71.21 for ascending aortic aneurysm without rupture.
Impact
Misclassification of ectasia as aneurysm or vice versa.
Mitigation Strategy
Regular training on documentation and coding guidelines.
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 Ascending Aorta, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Dilated Ascending Aorta
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Dilated Ascending Aorta. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Cardiology Progress Note
Specialty: CardiologyRequired Elements
- Imaging findings
- Aortic measurements
- Symptoms
- Risk factors
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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