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ICD-10 Coding for Pedal Edema(R60.0, R60.1, I87.1)

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

Also known as:

Foot SwellingLower Extremity Edema

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Pedal Edema

R60.0-R60.9Primary Range

Edema

This range covers different types of edema, including localized and generalized, which are relevant to pedal edema.

Chronic venous hypertension (idiopathic) with edema

This code is used when pedal edema is associated with chronic venous hypertension.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
R60.0Localized edemaUse when edema is confined to a specific area, such as one foot or leg.
  • Unilateral swelling
  • No systemic signs
R60.1Generalized edemaUse when edema is widespread and involves systemic symptoms.
  • Bilateral swelling
  • Systemic signs such as ascites or pleural effusion
I87.1Chronic venous hypertension (idiopathic) with edemaUse when edema is due to chronic venous hypertension.
  • Doppler-confirmed venous insufficiency
  • Presence of stasis changes

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 pedal edema

Essential facts and insights about Pedal Edema

The ICD-10 code for localized pedal edema is R60.0, while generalized pedal edema is coded as R60.1.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for pedal edema

Localized edema
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Edema localized to one limb without systemic symptoms.

Applicable To

  • Unilateral pedal edema

Excludes

  • Generalized edema (R60.1)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Unilateral swelling
  • No systemic signs

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of under-documenting if systemic causes are present.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the location and absence of systemic involvement.

Ancillary Codes

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

Chronic venous hypertension with edema

I87.1
Use when edema is due to venous insufficiency.

Heart failure, unspecified

I50.9
Use when edema is due to heart failure.

Non-healing ulcer of unspecified part of left lower leg

L97.929
Use when stasis ulcers are present.

Differential Codes

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

Generalized edema

R60.1
Presence of systemic signs such as bilateral swelling and ascites.

Localized edema

R60.0
Confined to one limb or area without systemic involvement.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Pedal Edema to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R60.0.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit failures., Financial: Potential for denied claims or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the suspected or confirmed cause of edema., Use specific terms like 'pitting' or 'non-pitting'.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Increases risk of audit and non-compliance., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the underlying cause of edema if known.

Impact

High risk of audit if R60.9 is used without specifying cause.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document and code the underlying cause if known.

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 Pedal Edema, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Pedal Edema

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

CHF with pedal edema

Specialty: Cardiology

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Physical exam findings
  • Diagnostic tests
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with bilateral pitting edema, NT-proBNP 800 pg/mL, EF 35%. Plan: Diuresis.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has swollen legs.
Good Documentation Example
Patient presents with bilateral pitting edema to knees, NT-proBNP 800 pg/mL, EF 35%.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details and diagnostic results supporting the diagnosis.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Pedal Edema? Ask your questions below.

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