Missed abortion
ICD-10 O02.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of missed abortion.
Missed abortion, also known as a blighted ovum, occurs when a pregnancy is lost but the body does not recognize the loss and continues to exhibit signs of pregnancy. This condition is characterized by the absence of an embryo in the gestational sac, which can be identified through ultrasound. Patients may present with symptoms such as a lack of fetal heartbeat, spotting, or cramping, but many may not experience any symptoms at all. The diagnosis is typically made during a routine ultrasound when the absence of fetal development is noted. Management of missed abortion may involve expectant management, medical management with medications such as misoprostol, or surgical intervention such as dilation and curettage (D&C) to remove the retained products of conception. It is crucial for healthcare providers to offer emotional support and counseling to patients experiencing this type of pregnancy loss, as it can be a distressing experience.
Detailed documentation of ultrasound results, patient symptoms, and management plan.
Patients presenting with early pregnancy loss, routine ultrasound findings, and management discussions.
Consideration of the emotional impact on the patient and the need for supportive care.
Thorough documentation of high-risk factors, ultrasound findings, and any complications.
Management of pregnancies with known risk factors for loss, such as advanced maternal age or previous pregnancy losses.
Focus on the implications of missed abortion in high-risk populations and the need for specialized care.
Used when a patient opts for medical management with misoprostol.
Documentation of patient consent, medication administration, and follow-up care.
Obstetricians should ensure that the patient understands the process and potential outcomes.
Performed when surgical intervention is required for missed abortion.
Detailed operative report and post-operative care notes.
Ensure that the indication for surgery is clearly documented.
Missed abortion refers to a pregnancy loss where the embryo has not developed, and the body has not expelled the pregnancy tissue. Incomplete abortion, on the other hand, occurs when some but not all of the pregnancy tissue has been expelled, often requiring further medical intervention.
