Sick sinus syndrome
ICD-10 I49.5 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of sick sinus syndrome.
Sick sinus syndrome (SSS) is a group of heart rhythm disorders characterized by the malfunction of the sinus node, the heart's natural pacemaker. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as fatigue, palpitations, dizziness, syncope, or even heart failure due to bradycardia or alternating bradycardia and tachycardia. The anatomy involved primarily includes the right atrium where the sinus node is located. Disease progression can lead to severe bradycardia, atrial fibrillation, or other arrhythmias, necessitating careful monitoring and potential intervention. Diagnostic considerations include an electrocardiogram (ECG) to identify abnormal heart rhythms, Holter monitoring for intermittent symptoms, and possibly electrophysiological studies to assess the sinus node's function. The management of SSS often involves lifestyle modifications, medication adjustments, and in some cases, the implantation of a pacemaker to regulate heart rhythm effectively.
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
I49.5 specifically covers sick sinus syndrome, which includes conditions such as bradycardia-tachycardia syndrome, sinus arrest, and other related arrhythmias originating from the sinus node.
I49.5 should be used when the primary issue is related to the dysfunction of the sinus node, particularly when patients exhibit symptoms of bradycardia or arrhythmias that are not classified under other specific codes.
Documentation should include a detailed patient history, results from ECG or Holter monitoring, clinical symptoms experienced by the patient, and any interventions undertaken, such as pacemaker implantation.
