Congenital malformations of the respiratory system
ICD-10 Codes (36)
Q41Q41.0Q41.1Q41.2Q41.8Q41.9Q42Q42.0Q42.1Q42.2Q42.3Q42.8Q42.9Q43Q43.0Q43.1Q43.2Q43.3Q43.4Q43.5Q43.6Q43.7Q43.8Q43.9Q44Q44.0Q44.1Q44.2Q44.3Q44.4Q44.5Q44.6Q44.7Q44.70Q44.71Q44.79Updates & Changes
FY 2026 Updates
New Codes (1)
Revised Codes (1)
Deleted Codes
No codes deleted in this range for FY 2026
Historical Changes
- •FY 2025: Routine maintenance updates with minor terminology clarifications
- •FY 2024: Enhanced specificity requirements for certain code ranges
- •FY 2023: Updated documentation guidelines for improved clarity
Upcoming Changes
- •Proposed updates pending review by Coordination and Maintenance Committee
- •Under consideration: Enhanced digital health integration codes
Implementation Guidance
- •Review all FY 2026 updates for Q40-Q44 codes before implementation
- •Always verify the most current codes in the ICD-10-CM manual
- •Ensure clinical documentation supports the selected diagnosis codes
- +3 more guidance items...
Range Overview
The ICD-10 code range Q40-Q44 is dedicated to congenital malformations of the respiratory system. These codes are used to document conditions present at birth that affect the structure and function of the respiratory system. This range includes codes for anomalies like congenital bronchiectasis, congenital malformation of larynx, trachea, bronchus, lung, and other congenital malformations of the respiratory system.
Key Usage Points:
- •Always code to the highest level of specificity within the Q40-Q44 range.
- •Use additional codes to identify any associated conditions or complications.
- •Remember that these codes are for congenital conditions, not acquired ones.
- •Codes in this range can be used across all healthcare settings.
- •Always verify the code in the Tabular List before assigning it.
Coding Guidelines
When to Use:
- ✓When a patient presents with a congenital malformation of the respiratory system.
- ✓When a patient's congenital respiratory condition impacts their current health status.
- ✓When a patient is undergoing treatment for a congenital respiratory malformation.
- ✓When a patient's congenital respiratory condition is relevant to the care they are receiving.
When NOT to Use:
- ✗When the condition is not congenital.
- ✗When the condition is not of the respiratory system.
- ✗When the condition is an acquired defect of the respiratory system.
- ✗When the condition has been corrected and no longer impacts the patient's health.
Code Exclusions
Always verify exclusions in the Tabular List before assigning a code.
Documentation Requirements
Proper documentation for codes in the Q40-Q44 range should include a clear statement of the congenital malformation, its location within the respiratory system, and any associated conditions or complications. The documentation should also indicate how the condition impacts the patient's current health status and treatment plan.
Clinical Information:
- •Specific type of congenital malformation
- •Location of the malformation in the respiratory system
- •Impact of the malformation on the patient's health
- •Any associated conditions or complications
- •Treatment plan for the malformation
Supporting Evidence:
- •Medical history records
- •Diagnostic imaging reports
- •Operative reports
- •Clinical notes
Good Documentation Example:
Patient has congenital bronchiectasis affecting both lungs, causing recurrent respiratory infections. Treatment includes physiotherapy and antibiotics.
Poor Documentation Example:
Patient has lung condition.
Common Documentation Errors:
- ⚠Not documenting the specific type of malformation
- ⚠Not indicating the location of the malformation
- ⚠Not documenting associated conditions or complications
- ⚠Not indicating how the malformation impacts the patient's health
Range Statistics
Coding Complexity
Coding for congenital malformations of the respiratory system can be complex due to the need to accurately identify the specific type and location of the malformation, as well as any associated conditions or complications. However, with careful review of the documentation and a good understanding of the respiratory system, these codes can be assigned accurately.
Key Factors:
- ▸Determining the specific type of malformation
- ▸Identifying the location of the malformation
- ▸Understanding the impact of the malformation on the patient's health
- ▸Coding associated conditions or complications
Specialty Focus
These codes are primarily used by pediatricians, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons. They are also relevant for any healthcare provider treating a patient with a congenital respiratory malformation.
Primary Specialties:
Clinical Scenarios:
- • A newborn diagnosed with congenital laryngomalacia
- • A child with congenital tracheomalacia requiring surgical intervention
- • An adult with a history of congenital bronchiectasis presenting with a respiratory infection
- • A patient with congenital lung hypoplasia undergoing a lung transplant evaluation
Resources & References
Resources for coding congenital malformations of the respiratory system include the ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting, the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines, and various clinical textbooks and journals.
Official Guidelines:
- ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting
- American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines
- World Health Organization ICD-10 guidelines
Clinical References:
- Pediatric Pulmonology textbook
- Thoracic Surgery textbook
Educational Materials:
- AAPC ICD-10 training
- AHIMA ICD-10 training
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Q40-Q44 code for an acquired respiratory malformation?
No, these codes are specifically for congenital malformations. For acquired malformations, use the appropriate codes in the J98.2-J98.9 range.