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ICD-10 Coding for Tetralogy of Fallot(Q21.3, Q22.0)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Tetralogy of Fallot. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

TOFFallot's Tetralogy

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Tetralogy of Fallot

Q20-Q28Primary Range

Congenital malformations of the circulatory system

This range includes all congenital heart defects, including Tetralogy of Fallot.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
Q21.3Tetralogy of FallotUse when all four anatomical defects of TOF are present.
  • Echocardiogram showing RVOT obstruction
  • VSD with overriding aorta
  • Right ventricular hypertrophy
Q22.0Pulmonary valve atresiaUse when TOF is present with pulmonary valve atresia.
  • Echocardiogram confirming absence of pulmonary valve

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 Tetralogy of Fallot

Essential facts and insights about Tetralogy of Fallot

The ICD-10 code for Tetralogy of Fallot is Q21.3, used when all four anatomical defects are present.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for tetralogy of fallot

Tetralogy of Fallot
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of all four TOF defects

coding Criteria

  • Avoid using Q21.82 for pentalogy

Applicable To

  • Classic TOF with all 4 components

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Echocardiogram showing RVOT obstruction
  • VSD with overriding aorta
  • Right ventricular hypertrophy

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with similar conditions like double outlet right ventricle.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure all four defects are documented for accurate coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

DiGeorge syndrome

Q93.81
Use when 22q11.2 deletion is confirmed.

Trisomy 21

Q90.9
Use when trisomy 21 is confirmed.

Differential Codes

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

Double outlet right ventricle

Q20.1
Aorta and pulmonary artery both arise from the right ventricle.

Atrial septal defect

Q21.1
No RVOT obstruction or aortic override.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Tetralogy of Fallot to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code Q21.3.

Impact

Clinical: Incomplete patient profile., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential loss of reimbursement for associated conditions.

Mitigation Strategy

Review genetic test results, Include all relevant codes

Impact

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

Mitigation Strategy

Code Q21.3 and Q21.1 separately.

Impact

Failure to document all four defects can lead to audit flags.

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured templates to ensure comprehensive documentation.

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 Tetralogy of Fallot, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Tetralogy of Fallot

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Tetralogy of Fallot. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Unrepaired TOF with cyanotic spells

Specialty: Cardiology

Required Elements

  • Cyanotic episodes
  • Echocardiogram findings
  • Oxygen saturation levels

Example Documentation

Subjective: Cyanotic spells x2 this week, relieved by knee-chest position. Objective: SaO2 82% room air, 92% on O2. ECG: RVH with strain pattern. Echo: RVOT peak gradient 70 mmHg, aortic override 60%. Assessment: Unrepaired TOF with hypercyanotic spells. Plan: Prostaglandin infusion, surgical consult.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Congenital heart defect
Good Documentation Example
Tetralogy of Fallot: perimembranous VSD (8mm), RVOT gradient 60 mmHg, aorta overrides septum by 60%, RV wall thickness 7mm
Explanation
The good example specifies all four defects and provides detailed measurements.

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