Ventricular fibrillation
ICD-10 I49.01 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of ventricular fibrillation.
Ventricular fibrillation (VF) is a life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia characterized by rapid, erratic electrical impulses in the ventricles, leading to ineffective contraction and cessation of blood circulation. Clinically, patients may present with sudden cardiac arrest, loss of consciousness, and absence of pulse. The anatomy involved primarily includes the heart's ventricles, which fail to pump blood effectively due to chaotic electrical activity. Disease progression can be rapid, with VF often resulting from underlying conditions such as coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, or cardiomyopathy. Diagnostic considerations include the use of electrocardiogram (ECG) to confirm the presence of VF, alongside clinical assessment of the patient’s hemodynamic status. Immediate intervention is critical, typically involving defibrillation and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) protocols to restore normal rhythm and prevent irreversible organ damage.
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
I49.01 specifically covers ventricular fibrillation, which can arise from various conditions including acute myocardial infarction, severe electrolyte imbalances, or as a complication of other heart diseases. It is critical to differentiate it from other arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia (I49.0) or atrial fibrillation (I48).
I49.01 should be used when the patient is diagnosed with ventricular fibrillation, particularly in acute settings where immediate intervention is necessary. It is essential to use this code when the ECG confirms VF, distinguishing it from other arrhythmias that may not require the same level of urgency.
Documentation for I49.01 should include the patient's clinical presentation, results of the ECG confirming ventricular fibrillation, details of any resuscitation efforts, and the patient's response to treatment. Comprehensive notes on the patient's history, risk factors, and any underlying conditions contributing to VF are also crucial.
