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 CodesQ21.23

Q21.23

Billable

Complete atrioventricular septal defect

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q21.23 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of complete atrioventricular septal defect.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Complete atrioventricular septal defect (CAVSD) is a complex congenital heart defect characterized by a single common atrioventricular valve instead of separate mitral and tricuspid valves, along with a defect in the septum that separates the heart's chambers. This condition results in a mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood, leading to increased blood flow to the lungs and potential heart failure if not treated. CAVSD is often associated with Down syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities, making genetic counseling an essential part of patient management. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, poor feeding, and failure to thrive in infants. Diagnosis is typically made through echocardiography, which reveals the structural anomalies. Surgical intervention is usually required to repair the defect and restore normal blood flow, often performed in the first year of life. Long-term follow-up is necessary to monitor for potential complications such as arrhythmias or valve dysfunction.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Multiple associated congenital anomalies
  • Variability in clinical presentation
  • Need for detailed surgical coding post-repair
  • Potential for co-existing chromosomal abnormalities

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inaccurate documentation of associated conditions
  • Failure to capture genetic counseling services
  • Misclassification of severity or type of defect
  • Inadequate follow-up documentation post-surgery

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on symptoms, diagnostic tests, and treatment plans are essential. Documentation should include growth parameters and developmental milestones.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Infants presenting with respiratory distress, failure to thrive, or cyanosis; routine follow-up visits post-surgery.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of any associated conditions, such as Down syndrome, and document any genetic counseling provided.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic testing results, family history, and counseling notes must be documented to support the diagnosis and any associated syndromes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with a family history of congenital heart defects, referrals for genetic counseling following diagnosis.

Billing Considerations

Consider the implications of chromosomal abnormalities and document any syndromic associations thoroughly.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q21.23 When
  • Follow the ICD
  • CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting, particularly those related to congenital malformations
  • Ensure that all associated conditions are documented and coded appropriately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q21.23 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

33533CPT Code

Repair of complete atrioventricular septal defect

Clinical Scenario

Used during surgical intervention for CAVSD.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric cardiology should ensure accurate coding of the surgical approach and any associated procedures.

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 for complex cases like CAVSD.

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 for complex cases like CAVSD.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement for complex cases like CAVSD.

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 CAVSD accurately?

Accurate coding of CAVSD is crucial for appropriate reimbursement, tracking of congenital heart defects, and ensuring that patients receive the necessary follow-up care and interventions.