ICD-10 Coding for High-Degree Atrioventricular Block(I44.1, I44.3)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for High-Degree Atrioventricular Block. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to High-Degree Atrioventricular Block
I44.0-I44.7Primary Range
Atrioventricular and left bundle-branch block
This range includes codes for various types of AV blocks, including second-degree and unspecified AV blocks relevant to high-degree AV 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 high-grade AV block is documented with a specific conduction ratio. |
|
| I44.3 | Other and unspecified atrioventricular block | Use when high-grade AV block is mentioned without specific conduction ratio or type. |
|
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 high-grade AV block
Essential facts and insights about High-Degree Atrioventricular Block
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for high degree atrioventricular block
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Documented 3:1 or higher conduction ratio on ECG.
documentation Criteria
- Explicit mention of high-grade AV block with conduction ratio.
Applicable To
- Mobitz Type I
- Mobitz Type II
- High-grade AV block with documented conduction ratio
Excludes
- Complete AV block (I44.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ECG/Holter showing ≥3:1 conduction ratio
- PR interval consistency (Mobitz II) or Wenckebach pattern (Mobitz I)
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if conduction ratio is not documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the conduction ratio for accurate coding.
I44.3 - Other and unspecified atrioventricular block
Use when high-grade AV block is mentioned without specific conduction ratio or type.
Applicable To
- Unspecified AV block
Excludes
- Second-degree AV block (I44.1)
- Complete AV block (I44.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ECG confirming AV block without specific conduction ratio
- Provider attestation of unspecified block
Coding Notes
Query provider for more details if documentation is insufficient.
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 High-Degree Atrioventricular Block to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I44.1.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate assessment of block severity., Regulatory: Potential audit issues., Financial: Incorrect DRG assignment affecting reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate clinicians on documentation requirements., Implement checklist for ECG interpretation.
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential underpayment due to incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use I44.1 if a specific conduction ratio is documented.
Impact
Using I44.3 without sufficient documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed documentation of ECG findings and conduction ratio.
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 High-Degree Atrioventricular Block, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for High-Degree Atrioventricular Block
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for High-Degree Atrioventricular Block. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
High-grade AV block with syncope
Specialty: CardiologyRequired Elements
- Conduction ratio
- Symptoms
- ECG findings
- Etiology
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for High-Degree Atrioventricular Block? Ask your questions below.