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ICD-10 Coding for Pancreatic Head Mass(C25.0, D13.6)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Pancreatic Head Mass. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Pancreatic Head TumorPancreatic Head Lesion

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Pancreatic Head Mass

C25.0-C25.9Primary Range

Malignant neoplasms of pancreas

Includes specific codes for malignant neoplasms of the pancreatic head, body, tail, and unspecified parts.

Benign neoplasm of pancreas

Covers benign neoplasms specifically located in the pancreas.

Other specified diseases of pancreas

Includes codes for non-neoplastic pancreatic conditions like cysts and pseudocysts.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
C25.0Malignant neoplasm of head of pancreasUse when a malignant tumor is confirmed in the head of the pancreas.
  • Imaging showing mass in pancreatic head
  • Biopsy confirming adenocarcinoma
  • Elevated CA19-9 levels
D13.6Benign neoplasm of pancreasUse for benign tumors localized to the pancreatic head.
  • Imaging showing benign characteristics
  • Biopsy confirming benign nature

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 pancreatic head mass

Essential facts and insights about Pancreatic Head Mass

The ICD-10 code for a malignant pancreatic head mass is C25.0, while a benign mass is coded as D13.6.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for pancreatic head mass

Malignant neoplasm of head of pancreas
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Confirmed adenocarcinoma in pancreatic head

documentation Criteria

  • Mass specified as arising from the head of the pancreas

Applicable To

  • Adenocarcinoma of pancreatic head

Excludes

  • Benign neoplasm of pancreatic head (D13.6)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging showing mass in pancreatic head
  • Biopsy confirming adenocarcinoma
  • Elevated CA19-9 levels

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if tumor origin is not specified

Coding Notes

  • Ensure tumor origin is documented to avoid unspecified codes.

Ancillary Codes

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

Jaundice

R17
Use when jaundice is present due to pancreatic head mass.

Acute pancreatitis, unspecified

K85.9
Use if mass causes duct obstruction leading to pancreatitis.

Differential Codes

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

Malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of pancreas

C25.8
Use when tumor spans multiple regions and origin is unclear.

Malignant neoplasm of head of pancreas

C25.0
Use when malignancy is confirmed.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Pancreatic Head Mass to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code C25.0.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Use standardized documentation templates, Ensure thorough imaging and pathology reports

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Impacts accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies the head of the pancreas to use C25.0

Impact

Using unspecified codes when specific codes are applicable.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure thorough documentation of tumor characteristics and location.

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 Pancreatic Head Mass, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Pancreatic Head Mass

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Pancreatic Head Mass. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Resectable Pancreatic Head Mass

Specialty: Surgical Oncology

Required Elements

  • Tumor size and location
  • Vascular involvement
  • Biopsy results

Example Documentation

3.2 cm mass in pancreatic head, no SMV involvement, CA19-9 850 U/mL.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Pancreatic mass noted.
Good Documentation Example
4 cm mass arising from the head of the pancreas with upstream ductal dilation.
Explanation
The good example specifies the location and characteristics, aiding accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Pancreatic Head Mass? Ask your questions below.

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