ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesO22.21

O22.21

Billable

Superficial thrombophlebitis in pregnancy, first trimester

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/08/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 O22.21 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of superficial thrombophlebitis in pregnancy, first trimester.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Superficial thrombophlebitis in pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester, is characterized by inflammation of a superficial vein associated with thrombosis. This condition can arise due to hormonal changes, increased blood volume, and venous stasis that occur during pregnancy. The first trimester is a critical period where the risk of venous complications can increase due to the physiological changes in the body. Symptoms typically include localized pain, tenderness, and redness along the affected vein. Diagnosis is often clinical, supported by ultrasound if necessary to rule out deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Management may involve conservative measures such as compression stockings and elevation of the affected limb, with anticoagulation considered in more severe cases or if there is a risk of progression to DVT. It is essential for healthcare providers to monitor the condition closely, as untreated superficial thrombophlebitis can lead to more serious complications, including pulmonary embolism.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between superficial thrombophlebitis and deep vein thrombosis.
  • Understanding the implications of anticoagulation therapy during pregnancy.
  • Recognizing the signs and symptoms that warrant further investigation.
  • Navigating the documentation requirements for pregnancy-related venous complications.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings.
  • Failure to document the rationale for anticoagulation therapy.
  • Misclassification of superficial thrombophlebitis as DVT.
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for ongoing management.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed documentation of symptoms, physical examination findings, and treatment plans is essential for accurate coding.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with leg pain and swelling during the first trimester, requiring differentiation from DVT.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of the patient's obstetric history and any previous venous complications.

Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive documentation of maternal and fetal health, including any high-risk factors.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of patients with a history of thrombosis or those presenting with risk factors for venous complications.

Billing Considerations

Close monitoring of anticoagulation therapy and its effects on both mother and fetus.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use O22.21 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for obstetric conditions, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation and that any associated conditions are also coded appropriately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use O22.21 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99213CPT Code

Established patient office visit, Level 3

Clinical Scenario

Used for follow-up visits for patients diagnosed with superficial thrombophlebitis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the patient's symptoms, treatment plan, and any changes in condition.

Specialty Considerations

Obstetricians should ensure that the visit is clearly linked to the management of the thrombophlebitis.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of obstetric conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking for conditions like superficial thrombophlebitis.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of obstetric conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking for conditions like superficial thrombophlebitis.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of obstetric conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking for conditions like superficial thrombophlebitis.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of superficial thrombophlebitis in pregnancy?

Common symptoms include localized pain, tenderness, swelling, and redness along the affected vein. Patients may also experience warmth in the area.