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ICD-10 Coding for Neurocardiogenic Syncope(R55, I95.8, G90.8)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Neurocardiogenic Syncope. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Vasovagal SyncopeReflex Syncope

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Neurocardiogenic Syncope

R55Primary Range

Syncope and collapse

Primary code for syncope when no underlying cause is identified.

Other and unspecified disorders of the circulatory system

Includes codes for hypotension which may be used as secondary codes.

Disorders of autonomic nervous system

Used for autonomic dysfunction associated with syncope.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
R55Syncope and collapseUse when syncope is the primary symptom and no underlying cause is identified.
  • Documented triggers such as heat or prolonged standing
  • Negative cardiac workup
I95.8Other hypotensionUse as a secondary code when hypotension is documented alongside syncope.
  • Orthostatic blood pressure measurements showing significant drop
G90.8Other disorders of autonomic nervous systemUse when autonomic dysfunction is present with syncope.
  • Symptoms of dysautonomia such as heat intolerance

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 neurocardiogenic syncope

Essential facts and insights about Neurocardiogenic Syncope

The ICD-10 code for neurocardiogenic syncope is R55, used when no underlying cause is identified.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for neurocardiogenic syncope

Syncope and collapse
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Syncope with no identifiable underlying cause

Applicable To

  • Fainting
  • Vasovagal attack

Excludes

  • Orthostatic hypotension (I95.1)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented triggers such as heat or prolonged standing
  • Negative cardiac workup

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect sequencing with conditions like pneumonia

Coding Notes

  • Do not use with orthostatic hypotension due to Excludes1 note.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Other hypotension

I95.8
Use when orthostatic blood pressure measurements are documented.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Orthostatic hypotension

I95.1
Use when blood pressure drops significantly upon standing.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Neurocardiogenic Syncope to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R55.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate clinical understanding of the event., Regulatory: Potential for audit issues., Financial: Risk of claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Train staff on detailed documentation practices.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to lower reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Sequence underlying conditions first if they are the cause of syncope.

Impact

Risk of audits due to improper code order.

Mitigation Strategy

Regular training on 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 Neurocardiogenic Syncope, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Neurocardiogenic Syncope

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Neurocardiogenic Syncope. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Emergency Department Visit

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • History of Present Illness
  • Objective Findings
  • Assessment

Example Documentation

35yo female with 8min standing in heat → 10s LOC, no trauma. Prodrome: 2min lightheadedness + diaphoresis. Immediate recovery with supine position.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient fainted.
Good Documentation Example
Syncope lasting 8 seconds triggered by venepuncture, with 3.2s asystole on tilt-test.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details and test results.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Neurocardiogenic Syncope? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

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