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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC71.7

C71.7

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of brain stem

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C71.7 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of brain stem.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C71.7 refers to malignant neoplasms located in the brain stem, which is a critical area of the central nervous system (CNS) that controls many vital functions, including breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. Brain stem tumors can be primary, originating from the brain stem itself, or secondary, resulting from metastasis from other parts of the body. Symptoms often include headaches, nausea, vomiting, balance issues, and neurological deficits such as weakness or sensory changes. Imaging studies, particularly MRI, are essential for diagnosis, providing detailed views of the tumor's size, location, and effect on surrounding structures. Molecular markers, such as IDH mutations and 1p/19q co-deletion status, can help in determining the tumor type and guiding treatment options. Treatment typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the tumor's characteristics and the patient's overall health. The prognosis varies significantly based on the tumor type, location, and response to treatment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in tumor types and histology
  • Need for precise imaging documentation
  • Complexity of treatment regimens
  • Potential for co-morbid neurological conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of imaging results
  • Failure to specify tumor type or histology
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans
  • Misclassification of primary vs. secondary tumors

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurosurgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and pathology results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical resection of brain stem tumors, management of post-operative complications.

Billing Considerations

Accurate coding of surgical procedures and any complications that arise.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive treatment plans, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy details.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of malignant brain tumors, including palliative care considerations.

Billing Considerations

Documentation of molecular markers and treatment response is crucial.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C71.7 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the tumor's location, type, and any associated neurological deficits
  • Include imaging findings and treatment plans in the medical record

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C71.7 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

61510CPT Code

Craniotomy for excision of brain tumor

Clinical Scenario

Used during surgical intervention for brain stem tumors.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Neurosurgeons must document the extent of resection and any complications.

77261CPT Code

Radiation treatment delivery

Clinical Scenario

Used for post-operative management of brain stem tumors.

Documentation Requirements

Treatment plan and response assessments.

Specialty Considerations

Oncologists must document the type of radiation and dosage.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of brain tumors, including C71.7, which enhances the ability to track and analyze treatment outcomes and resource utilization for these complex cases.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of brain tumors, including C71.7, which enhances the ability to track and analyze treatment outcomes and resource utilization for these complex cases.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of brain tumors, including C71.7, which enhances the ability to track and analyze treatment outcomes and resource utilization for these complex cases.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Brain Tumor Association
  • •
    National Cancer Institute - Brain Tumors

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Brain Tumor Association
  • •
    National Cancer Institute - Brain Tumors

Frequently Asked Questions

What imaging studies are required for coding C71.7?

MRI is the preferred imaging modality for diagnosing brain stem tumors, providing detailed information about the tumor's size, location, and effects on surrounding structures.

How do molecular markers influence treatment decisions for C71.7?

Molecular markers can help determine the tumor type and guide treatment options, including targeted therapies and clinical trial eligibility.