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ICD-10 Coding for Thoracic Aortic Ectasia(I77.810)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Thoracic Aortic Ectasia. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Aortic Ectasia of the Thoracic RegionThoracic Aortic Dilation

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Thoracic Aortic Ectasia

I77.810-I77.819Primary Range

Other specified disorders of arteries and arterioles

This range includes codes for aortic ectasia, specifically distinguishing thoracic aortic ectasia from other forms.

Aneurysm and dissection of aorta

This range is relevant for differentiating between ectasia and aneurysm, particularly when the dilation exceeds 50% of normal size.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for thoracic aortic ectasia

Essential facts and insights about Thoracic Aortic Ectasia

The ICD-10 code for thoracic aortic ectasia is I77.810, used for dilation less than 50% of normal diameter.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for thoracic aortic ectasia

Thoracic aortic ectasia
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Imaging shows dilation less than 50% of normal diameter.

coding Criteria

  • Use I77.810 for thoracic ectasia without rupture.

Applicable To

  • Dilation of the thoracic aorta less than 50% of normal diameter

Excludes

  • Thoracic aortic aneurysm (I71.2-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • CT or MRI showing thoracic aortic dilation less than 50% of normal diameter
  • Documented comparison with previous imaging

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with aneurysm codes if dilation exceeds 50%

Coding Notes

  • Ensure accurate measurement documentation to differentiate from aneurysm.

Ancillary Codes

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

Essential (primary) hypertension

I10
Use when hypertension is a contributing factor to the ectasia.

Differential Codes

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

Thoracic aortic aneurysm, without rupture

I71.2
Use when dilation is 50% or more of normal diameter.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Thoracic Aortic Ectasia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I77.810.

Impact

Clinical: Misrepresentation of patient's condition, Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines, Financial: Potential for claim denials

Mitigation Strategy

Review imaging criteria, Ensure documentation supports code selection

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims or incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: May result in non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Affects accuracy of clinical data and patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify imaging measurements to ensure dilation is less than 50% for ectasia.

Impact

Risk of selecting incorrect codes for aortic conditions.

Mitigation Strategy

Regular training on imaging criteria and code differentiation.

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 Thoracic Aortic Ectasia, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Thoracic Aortic Ectasia

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Thoracic Aortic Ectasia. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Thoracic Aortic Ectasia Surveillance

Specialty: Cardiology

Required Elements

  • Patient demographics
  • Imaging findings
  • Comparison with previous studies
  • Clinical assessment
  • Management plan

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Enlarged aorta seen on scan.
Good Documentation Example
54M with HTN presents for surveillance. CTA reveals 4.3 cm fusiform dilation of ascending aorta (3.8 cm baseline 2019). No dissection. BP 138/82. Plan: Continue lisinopril, repeat imaging in 12 months.
Explanation
The good example provides specific measurements, comparison with previous imaging, and a clear management plan.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Thoracic Aortic Ectasia? Ask your questions below.

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