Cor pulmonale (chronic)
ICD-10 I27.81 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cor pulmonale (chronic).
Cor pulmonale (chronic) is a condition characterized by the alteration of the structure and function of the right ventricle of the heart due to prolonged exposure to high blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries, commonly resulting from chronic lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, or sleep apnea. The right ventricle is responsible for pumping deoxygenated blood to the lungs, and when it faces increased resistance due to pulmonary hypertension, it can lead to right ventricular hypertrophy and eventual heart failure. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as dyspnea, fatigue, chest discomfort, and peripheral edema. The disease progression often correlates with the severity of the underlying pulmonary condition, and early diagnosis is crucial for management. Diagnostic considerations include echocardiography, chest imaging, and pulmonary function tests to assess the extent of lung disease and right heart function. Management typically involves treating the underlying lung disease, oxygen therapy, and in some cases, medications to manage heart failure symptoms.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
I27.81 specifically covers chronic cor pulmonale resulting from chronic respiratory diseases such as COPD, pulmonary hypertension, and other conditions that lead to sustained pulmonary artery pressure elevation.
I27.81 should be used when there is clear evidence of chronic right heart failure due to pulmonary conditions, differentiating it from acute cases or unspecified pulmonary heart disease.
Documentation should include a detailed history of the patient's chronic lung disease, evidence of pulmonary hypertension, and assessments of right ventricular function, such as echocardiograms or right heart catheterization results.
