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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ21.16

Q21.16

Billable

Sinus venosus atrial septal defect, unspecified

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 Q21.16 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of sinus venosus atrial septal defect, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Sinus venosus atrial septal defect (SVASD) is a rare congenital heart defect characterized by an abnormal opening between the right atrium and the left atrium, resulting from improper development of the atrial septum during embryogenesis. This defect is often associated with abnormal pulmonary venous return, where one or more pulmonary veins drain into the right atrium instead of the left atrium. Patients with SVASD may present with symptoms such as exercise intolerance, fatigue, and palpitations, particularly as they age. The condition can lead to right atrial and ventricular enlargement, pulmonary hypertension, and increased risk of atrial arrhythmias. Diagnosis typically involves echocardiography, which can visualize the defect and assess hemodynamic significance. Management may include surgical repair or catheter-based interventions, particularly in symptomatic patients or those with significant shunting. Early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent long-term complications associated with this defect.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of symptoms
  • Need for precise documentation of associated anomalies
  • Differentiation from other types of atrial septal defects
  • Potential for coexisting congenital heart defects

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to capture associated congenital anomalies
  • Misclassification of the defect type
  • Inconsistent coding of surgical interventions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pediatric history, including prenatal and perinatal factors, growth and development assessments, and symptomatology.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of a newborn with suspected congenital heart disease, follow-up of a child post-surgical repair, and assessment of exercise tolerance in older children.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of age-related changes in symptoms and the impact of growth on hemodynamics.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Family history of congenital heart defects, genetic testing results, and syndromic associations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital heart disease and evaluation of syndromic presentations.

Billing Considerations

Understanding the genetic basis of congenital heart defects and their implications for family planning.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q21.16 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital malformations, ensuring accurate documentation of the defect type, associated conditions, and any interventions performed

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q21.16 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

93306CPT Code

Echocardiography, transthoracic, real-time with interpretation

Clinical Scenario

Used for initial diagnosis and follow-up of SVASD.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the echocardiogram and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric cardiology may require specific echocardiographic views.

33641CPT Code

Repair of atrial septal defect

Clinical Scenario

Surgical intervention for symptomatic SVASD.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative report and preoperative assessment.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the type of defect repaired.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital heart defects, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. The granularity of ICD-10 codes helps in better tracking of congenital conditions and their management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital heart defects, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. The granularity of ICD-10 codes helps in better tracking of congenital conditions and their management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. The granularity of ICD-10 codes helps in better tracking of congenital conditions and their management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Pediatrics - Congenital Heart Disease

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Pediatrics - Congenital Heart Disease

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of coding sinus venosus atrial septal defect accurately?

Accurate coding of SVASD is crucial for appropriate management and treatment planning. It ensures that patients receive the necessary interventions and follow-up care, and it also impacts data collection for congenital heart disease research and resource allocation.