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ICD-10 Coding for Superficial Thrombophlebitis(I80.0, I80.9)

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

Also known as:

Superficial Venous ThrombosisPhlebitis

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Superficial Thrombophlebitis

I80-I89Primary Range

Diseases of veins, lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes, not elsewhere classified

This range includes codes for various venous conditions, including thrombophlebitis.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
I80.0Phlebitis and thrombophlebitis of superficial vessels of lower extremitiesUse when thrombophlebitis is confirmed in superficial veins of the lower extremities.
  • Ultrasound showing non-compressible superficial vein
  • Absence of deep vein involvement
I80.9Phlebitis and thrombophlebitis of unspecified siteUse when documentation does not specify the site of thrombophlebitis.
  • Lack of specific vein documentation

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 superficial thrombophlebitis

Essential facts and insights about Superficial Thrombophlebitis

The ICD-10 code for superficial thrombophlebitis of the lower extremities is I80.0. Use I80.9 if the site is unspecified.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for superficial thrombophlebitis

Phlebitis and thrombophlebitis of superficial vessels of lower extremities
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Confirmation of superficial vein involvement via imaging

documentation Criteria

  • Specificity in vein and laterality documentation

Applicable To

  • Superficial thrombophlebitis of great saphenous vein
  • Superficial thrombophlebitis of small saphenous vein

Excludes

  • Deep vein thrombosis (I80.1)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Ultrasound showing non-compressible superficial vein
  • Absence of deep vein involvement

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with deep vein thrombosis coding

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the vein involved and confirms superficial nature.

Ancillary Codes

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

Bacterial agents as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B95.-
Use for septic thrombophlebitis with identified bacterial infection.

Differential Codes

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

Phlebitis and thrombophlebitis of femoral vein

I80.1
Use for deep vein involvement; superficial femoral vein is a deep vein.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Superficial Thrombophlebitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I80.0.

Impact

Clinical: Potential mismanagement of condition, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Reduced reimbursement

Mitigation Strategy

Educate providers on documentation specificity, Implement documentation templates

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to reimbursement issues., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Code as I80.1 since the superficial femoral vein is a deep vein.

Impact

Lack of specific vein documentation can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement thorough documentation practices.

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 Superficial Thrombophlebitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Superficial Thrombophlebitis

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

Acute Superficial Thrombophlebitis

Specialty: Vascular Surgery

Required Elements

  • Vein involved
  • Laterality
  • Clot length
  • Presence of infection

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Thrombophlebitis in leg
Good Documentation Example
Acute superficial thrombophlebitis of left great saphenous vein, 8 cm clot, no DVT on ultrasound.
Explanation
The good example provides specific vein, laterality, and diagnostic confirmation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Superficial Thrombophlebitis? Ask your questions below.

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