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ICD-10 Coding for WATCHMAN Device Implantation(I48.21, 02L73DK)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for WATCHMAN Device Implantation. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Left Atrial Appendage ClosureLAA Occlusion

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to WATCHMAN Device Implantation

I48.0-I48.21Primary Range

Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter

These codes specify the type of atrial fibrillation, which is crucial for determining the need for a WATCHMAN device.

02L73DKPrimary Range

Percutaneous occlusion of LAA with intraluminal device

This is the primary procedure code for the WATCHMAN device implantation.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
I48.21Permanent atrial fibrillationUse when the patient has permanent atrial fibrillation and is a candidate for LAA closure.
  • Documented CHA2DS2-VASc score
  • Contraindication to anticoagulation
02L73DKPercutaneous occlusion of LAA with intraluminal deviceUse for the procedure of implanting a WATCHMAN device.
  • TEE confirmation of LAA anatomy
  • CHA2DS2-VASc score 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 WATCHMAN device

Essential facts and insights about WATCHMAN Device Implantation

The ICD-10-PCS code for WATCHMAN device implantation is 02L73DK.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for watchman device

Permanent atrial fibrillation
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Patient has permanent AF and contraindication to anticoagulation.

Applicable To

  • Chronic atrial fibrillation

Excludes

  • Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (I48.0)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented CHA2DS2-VASc score
  • Contraindication to anticoagulation

Code-Specific Risks

  • Denial if unspecified AF code is used

Coding Notes

  • Ensure AF type is specified to avoid denials.

Ancillary Codes

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

TEE guidance during procedure

93355
Use for intraprocedural TEE guidance, billed separately by non-operating physician.

Differential Codes

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

Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation

I48.0
Use for intermittent AF episodes; not suitable for WATCHMAN.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting WATCHMAN Device Implantation to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I48.21.

Impact

Clinical: Potential audit for non-compliance., Regulatory: Non-compliance with CMS NCD., Financial: Possible claim denial or delay.

Mitigation Strategy

Include Z00.6 in all Medicare claims for LAA closure.

Impact

Reimbursement: Denial of claims due to unspecified codes., Compliance: Non-compliance with CMS requirements., Data Quality: Inaccurate data representation of patient condition.

Mitigation Strategy

Specify the type of AF, such as I48.21 for permanent AF.

Impact

Using unspecified AF codes can lead to claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies AF type.

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 WATCHMAN Device Implantation, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for WATCHMAN Device Implantation

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for WATCHMAN Device Implantation. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

WATCHMAN Device Implantation

Specialty: Cardiology

Required Elements

  • AF type
  • CHA2DS2-VASc score
  • TEE findings
  • Contraindications to anticoagulation

Example Documentation

Permanent AF (I48.21) with CHA2DS2-VASc=5, HAS-BLED=4, and recurrent GI bleeding. TEE confirms LAA dimensions compatible with WATCHMAN.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
AF, needs WATCHMAN.
Good Documentation Example
Permanent AF (I48.21) with CHA2DS2-VASc=5, HAS-BLED=4, and recurrent GI bleeding on apixaban. TEE confirms LAA dimensions compatible with 28mm WATCHMAN FLX.
Explanation
The good example specifies AF type, scores, and TEE findings, ensuring compliance and accurate coding.

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