ICD-10 Coding for Unstable Angina(I20.0, I25.11x)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Unstable Angina. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Unstable Angina
I20-I25Primary Range
Ischemic Heart Diseases
This range includes codes for angina pectoris and coronary artery disease, relevant for coding unstable angina.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| I20.0 | Unstable angina | Use when the patient presents with new-onset or worsening angina that occurs at rest or with minimal exertion, without elevated troponin levels. |
|
| I25.11x | Atherosclerotic heart disease of native coronary artery with angina pectoris | Use when angina is due to atherosclerosis of native coronary arteries. |
|
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 unstable angina
Essential facts and insights about Unstable Angina
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for unstable angina
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of new-onset or worsening angina at rest
- Negative troponin levels
documentation Criteria
- ECG showing transient ST changes
Applicable To
- Crescendo angina
- Preinfarction angina
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Negative troponin levels
- Transient ST depression on ECG
- Symptoms of angina at rest or with minimal exertion
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding as NSTEMI due to lack of troponin elevation
- Failure to document ECG changes
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the type of angina and any associated atherosclerosis.
I25.11x - Atherosclerotic heart disease of native coronary artery with angina pectoris
Use when angina is due to atherosclerosis of native coronary arteries.
Applicable To
- Atherosclerosis with angina
Excludes
- Unstable angina without atherosclerosis (I20.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented atherosclerosis
- Angina symptoms linked to coronary artery disease
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation clearly links angina to atherosclerosis.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Atherosclerotic heart disease of native coronary artery with angina pectoris
I25.11xDifferential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Unstable Angina to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I20.0.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure ECG findings are documented in the patient's record., Train staff on the importance of documenting ECG changes.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines for specificity., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies unstable features or link to atherosclerosis.
Impact
Risk of audits due to use of unspecified angina codes without detailed documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed documentation of angina type and associated conditions.
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 Unstable Angina, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Unstable Angina
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Unstable Angina. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Cardiology H&P for Unstable Angina
Specialty: CardiologyRequired Elements
- Chief complaint
- History of present illness
- Past medical history
- Medications
- ECG findings
- Troponin levels
- Assessment and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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