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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN88.3

N88.3

Billable

Incompetence of cervix uteri

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/18/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 N88.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of incompetence of cervix uteri.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Incompetence of the cervix uteri, also known as cervical insufficiency, is a condition characterized by the premature dilation of the cervix during pregnancy, which can lead to preterm birth or miscarriage. This condition is often asymptomatic until significant cervical changes occur. Women with cervical incompetence may experience a history of previous preterm births, cervical surgeries, or trauma. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, ultrasound measurements of cervical length, and patient history. Management may include cervical cerclage, progesterone supplementation, or close monitoring during pregnancy. Understanding the underlying causes, such as congenital anomalies or hormonal imbalances, is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of adverse pregnancy outcomes. The condition is distinct from inflammatory disorders and requires careful assessment to differentiate it from other cervical pathologies.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from other cervical disorders such as cervical dysplasia or infections.
  • Need for comprehensive patient history to establish diagnosis.
  • Variability in clinical presentation and management strategies.
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting pregnancy outcomes.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of prior obstetric history.
  • Failure to document the rationale for cerclage placement.
  • Misclassification of cervical incompetence as cervical insufficiency.
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on pregnancy outcomes.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed obstetric history, including previous pregnancies and outcomes, and any cervical interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of patients with a history of preterm labor or cervical surgeries.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly indicate the diagnosis and treatment plan, including any surgical interventions.

Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive ultrasound reports and assessments of cervical length.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Monitoring high-risk pregnancies with cervical incompetence.

Billing Considerations

Emphasis on multidisciplinary care and coordination with obstetricians.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N88.3 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, N88
  • 3 should be used when there is clear documentation of cervical incompetence
  • Proper coding requires a thorough understanding of the patient's obstetric history and current clinical status

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N88.3 When
  • It is important to exclude other cervical conditions that may mimic symptoms, such as cervical polyps or infections

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

59300CPT Code

Cervical cerclage

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of diagnosed cervical incompetence to prevent preterm birth.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication.

Specialty Considerations

Obstetricians must document the rationale for cerclage placement.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cervical conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. N88.3 provides a clear distinction from other cervical disorders, facilitating better patient management and care.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cervical conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. N88.3 provides a clear distinction from other cervical disorders, facilitating better patient management and care.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cervical conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. N88.3 provides a clear distinction from other cervical disorders, facilitating better patient management and care.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary cause of cervical incompetence?

Cervical incompetence can be caused by a variety of factors, including previous cervical surgeries, congenital abnormalities, and hormonal imbalances. It is essential to evaluate each patient individually to determine the underlying cause.