ICD-10 Coding for Hepatic Insufficiency(K72.00, K76.82)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Hepatic Insufficiency. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Hepatic Insufficiency
K72Primary Range
Hepatic failure, not elsewhere classified
This range includes codes for acute and chronic hepatic failure, which are directly related to hepatic insufficiency.
Hepatic encephalopathy
This code is used for hepatic encephalopathy, a common complication of hepatic insufficiency.
Ascites
Ascites is a common symptom associated with hepatic insufficiency and may require additional coding.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K72.00 | Acute and subacute hepatic failure without coma | Use when acute hepatic failure is documented without coma. |
|
| K76.82 | Hepatic encephalopathy | Use when hepatic encephalopathy is documented as a complication. |
|
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 hepatic insufficiency
Essential facts and insights about Hepatic Insufficiency
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for hepatic insufficiency
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Acute onset with elevated INR and bilirubin levels.
Applicable To
- Acute liver failure without coma
Excludes
- Chronic hepatic failure (K72.10)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- INR >1.5
- Bilirubin >2 mg/dL
- Acute onset (<26 weeks)
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification as unspecified hepatic failure.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the absence of coma.
K76.82 - Hepatic encephalopathy
Use when hepatic encephalopathy is documented as a complication.
Applicable To
- Portal-systemic encephalopathy
Excludes
- Toxic encephalopathy (G92)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Presence of asterixis
- Serum ammonia >50 µmol/L
Coding Notes
Ensure linkage to liver disease is documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Hepatic encephalopathy
K76.82Differential 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 Hepatic Insufficiency to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K72.00.
Impact
Clinical: Misdiagnosis of encephalopathy etiology., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation explicitly links encephalopathy to liver condition.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower DRG reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports the use of specific codes like K72.00.
Impact
Use of unspecified codes when specific codes are applicable.
Mitigation Strategy
Regular training on code specificity and documentation requirements.
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 Hepatic Insufficiency, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Hepatic Insufficiency
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Hepatic Insufficiency. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Acute hepatic failure with encephalopathy
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- INR levels
- Bilirubin levels
- Presence of encephalopathy
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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