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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesJ47.9

J47.9

Bronchiectasis, uncomplicated

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 J47.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of bronchiectasis, uncomplicated.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Bronchiectasis is a chronic condition characterized by the abnormal and permanent dilation of the bronchi, which are the large air passages from the trachea to the lungs. This condition often results from repeated infections or obstructions that lead to inflammation and damage to the bronchial walls. Patients typically present with a chronic productive cough, sputum production, and recurrent respiratory infections. The anatomy involved includes the bronchi and bronchioles, which are integral to the respiratory system's function of conducting air to the alveoli for gas exchange. Disease progression can lead to significant lung damage, respiratory failure, and complications such as pulmonary hypertension. Diagnostic considerations include imaging studies like chest X-rays and CT scans, which can reveal the characteristic bronchial dilation, as well as pulmonary function tests to assess lung capacity and airflow obstruction. A thorough patient history and physical examination are essential to differentiate bronchiectasis from other respiratory conditions.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires imaging and clinical correlation.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve long-term management with antibiotics and airway clearance techniques.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical history and treatment response documentation are necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate coding to differentiate from other respiratory conditions.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with other respiratory diseases.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete patient history or lack of imaging results.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to insufficient documentation or unclear diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pulmonology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Bronchiectasis significantly impacts patient quality of life and can lead to increased healthcare utilization due to frequent exacerbations and hospitalizations. Understanding its epidemiology is crucial, as it affects diverse populations, particularly those with a history of respiratory infections. Quality measures related to bronchiectasis management focus on reducing exacerbation rates and improving patient outcomes through effective treatment strategies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Bronchiectasis significantly impacts patient quality of life and can lead to increased healthcare utilization due to frequent exacerbations and hospitalizations. Understanding its epidemiology is crucial, as it affects diverse populations, particularly those with a history of respiratory infections. Quality measures related to bronchiectasis management focus on reducing exacerbation rates and improving patient outcomes through effective treatment strategies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement considerations include the necessity of demonstrating medical necessity for diagnostic tests and treatments. Documentation should clearly outline the patient's condition and any complications to avoid denials. Familiarity with payer-specific guidelines and coding best practices is essential to minimize billing challenges.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for J00-J99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for J00-J99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by J47.9?

J47.9 covers uncomplicated bronchiectasis, which may arise from various causes such as post-infectious changes, congenital conditions, or idiopathic origins. It does not include bronchiectasis associated with cystic fibrosis or other specific underlying diseases.

When should J47.9 be used instead of related codes?

J47.9 should be used when bronchiectasis is diagnosed without any associated complications or underlying conditions. If the bronchiectasis is due to cystic fibrosis or other specific etiologies, the appropriate related codes should be selected.

What documentation supports J47.9?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical history, results from imaging studies confirming bronchiectasis, and evidence of chronic cough and sputum production. Treatment plans and responses should also be documented to support ongoing management.