Central sleep apnea in conditions classified elsewhere
ICD-10 G47.37 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of central sleep apnea in conditions classified elsewhere.
Central sleep apnea (CSA) is a sleep disorder characterized by the cessation of breathing during sleep due to a lack of respiratory effort. Unlike obstructive sleep apnea, where the airway is blocked, CSA occurs when the brain fails to send appropriate signals to the muscles that control breathing. This condition is often associated with underlying medical conditions such as heart failure, stroke, or neurological disorders. Patients may experience excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and cognitive impairment. Diagnosis typically involves polysomnography (sleep study), which records brain waves, oxygen levels, heart rate, and breathing patterns during sleep. Treatment options may include adaptive servo-ventilation (ASV), bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP), or addressing the underlying condition contributing to CSA. Accurate coding is essential for proper reimbursement and to reflect the complexity of the patient's condition.
Detailed sleep study results, history of respiratory conditions, and treatment plans.
Patients with heart failure presenting with sleep disturbances, requiring sleep studies.
Ensure clear documentation of the relationship between CSA and any underlying pulmonary or cardiac conditions.
Neurological assessments, imaging studies, and sleep study interpretations.
Patients with neurological disorders such as stroke or ALS presenting with sleep apnea symptoms.
Document neurological evaluations that may contribute to CSA.
Used to diagnose CSA in patients presenting with sleep disturbances.
Results of the sleep study must be documented in the medical record.
Pulmonologists and sleep specialists should ensure comprehensive reports are available.
Central sleep apnea is caused by a failure of the brain to signal the muscles to breathe, while obstructive sleep apnea is due to a physical blockage of the airway. Accurate coding requires distinguishing between the two based on clinical findings and sleep study results.
