ICD-10 Coding for Intermittent Claudication(I70.213, I73.9)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Intermittent Claudication. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Intermittent Claudication
I70.2-I70.9Primary Range
Atherosclerosis of arteries of extremities
This range includes codes for atherosclerosis with claudication, specifying laterality and site.
Peripheral vascular disease, unspecified
Used when the underlying cause of claudication is not specified.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| I70.213 | Atherosclerosis of native arteries of extremities with intermittent claudication, bilateral legs | Use when documentation specifies atherosclerosis with claudication in both legs. |
|
| I73.9 | Peripheral vascular disease, unspecified | Use when the underlying cause of claudication is not specified. |
|
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 intermittent claudication
Essential facts and insights about Intermittent Claudication
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for intermittent claudication
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of claudication symptoms with confirmed atherosclerosis.
Applicable To
- Atherosclerosis with claudication
Excludes
- Neurogenic claudication
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ABI ≤0.9
- Imaging showing ≥50% stenosis
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding unspecified PVD when atherosclerosis is documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality and site are documented for accurate coding.
I73.9 - Peripheral vascular disease, unspecified
Use when the underlying cause of claudication is not specified.
Applicable To
- Unspecified PVD
Excludes
- Atherosclerosis with claudication
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Exclusion of atherosclerosis via imaging
Coding Notes
Avoid using if atherosclerosis is documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Long-term (current) use of anticoagulants
Z79.84Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Low back pain
M54.5Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Intermittent Claudication to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I70.213.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Increases risk of coding audits., Financial: Potential for incorrect billing and reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies claudication symptoms and related findings.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Increases risk of audit., Data Quality: Reduces specificity of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Use I70.21- series codes for atherosclerosis with claudication.
Impact
Using I73.9 when a more specific code is applicable.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure thorough documentation of atherosclerosis and claudication.
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 Intermittent Claudication, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Intermittent Claudication
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Intermittent Claudication. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Patient with bilateral leg claudication
Specialty: Vascular SurgeryRequired Elements
- Patient history
- ABI results
- Imaging findings
- Symptom description
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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