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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 2: NeoplasmsC49

C49

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of other connective and soft tissue

Chapter 2:Neoplasms

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 C49 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of other connective and soft tissue.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C49 refers to malignant neoplasms that arise from connective and soft tissues, which include a variety of sarcomas that are not classified elsewhere. These tumors can originate from adipose tissue, fibrous tissue, vascular tissue, and other connective tissues. Soft tissue sarcomas are relatively rare, accounting for approximately 1% of all adult cancers, but they can be aggressive and have a high potential for metastasis. Grading of soft tissue sarcomas is crucial, as it helps determine the prognosis and treatment options. Tumors are typically graded based on histological features, including cellularity, pleomorphism, and mitotic activity. Multidisciplinary management is essential for optimal outcomes, involving surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pathologists. Treatment may include surgical resection, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, depending on the tumor type, grade, and stage. Accurate coding for C49 requires careful attention to the specific type of sarcoma, its location, and any associated complications or metastases.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of soft tissue sarcoma types requiring specific coding
  • Need for precise documentation of tumor grade and stage
  • Potential for metastasis complicating coding
  • Multidisciplinary treatment approaches influencing coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor type and grade
  • Failure to capture metastasis or staging details
  • Misclassification of sarcoma subtype
  • Lack of multidisciplinary treatment documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, treatment plans, and follow-up notes are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and management of soft tissue sarcomas, including staging and treatment response.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of tumor grade and type, as well as any metastasis.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing surgical procedures and findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical resection of soft tissue sarcomas and management of surgical complications.

Billing Considerations

Document the extent of resection and any complications to support coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C49 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the tumor's location, type, and grade
  • Include any relevant staging information and treatment details

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C49 When
  • Exclude conditions that are not classified under C49

Related CPT Codes

19301CPT Code

Mastectomy, partial

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where sarcoma is located in breast tissue.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Oncology and surgical documentation must align for accurate coding.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of soft tissue sarcomas, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of treatment outcomes and epidemiological studies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of soft tissue sarcomas, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of treatment outcomes and epidemiological studies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of treatment outcomes and epidemiological studies.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Soft Tissue Sarcoma
  • •
    National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Soft Tissue Sarcoma
  • •
    National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of tumors are classified under C49?

C49 includes various types of soft tissue sarcomas such as liposarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, and fibrosarcoma, among others.

How important is tumor grading in coding C49?

Tumor grading is crucial as it influences treatment decisions and prognosis, and must be accurately documented for proper coding.