ICD-10 Coding for Heart Blockage(I44.1, I44.2)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Heart Blockage. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Heart Blockage
I44.0-I44.7Primary Range
Atrioventricular and left bundle-branch block
This range includes all types of heart block, including first-degree, second-degree (Mobitz I and II), and complete heart block.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| I44.1 | Atrioventricular block, second degree | Use when ECG confirms second-degree AV block, specifying Mobitz type. |
|
| I44.2 | Complete heart block | Use when ECG confirms complete heart block with AV dissociation. |
|
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 complete heart block
Essential facts and insights about Heart Blockage
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for heart blockage
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- ECG shows second-degree AV block pattern.
Applicable To
- Mobitz Type I (Wenckebach)
- Mobitz Type II
Excludes
- Complete heart block (I44.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ECG showing PR interval prolongation before a dropped beat
- Holter monitor data confirming pattern
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if Mobitz type is not specified.
Coding Notes
- Ensure Mobitz type is documented for accurate coding.
I44.2 - Complete heart block
Use when ECG confirms complete heart block with AV dissociation.
Applicable To
- Third-degree AV block
Excludes
- Second-degree AV block (I44.1)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ECG demonstrating P waves and QRS complexes dissociated
- Electrophysiology study confirming infranodal block
Coding Notes
Document pacemaker status if applicable.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Heart Blockage to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I44.1.
Impact
Clinical: Impacts treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate providers on documentation requirements.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies Mobitz I or II.
Impact
Failure to document Mobitz type for second-degree AV block.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement provider education and documentation audits.
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 Heart Blockage, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Heart Blockage
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Heart Blockage. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Patient with complete heart block
Specialty: CardiologyRequired Elements
- ECG interpretation
- Pacemaker status
- Etiology of heart block
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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