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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ23.81

Q23.81

Billable

Bicuspid aortic valve

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q23.81 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of bicuspid aortic valve.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is a congenital heart defect characterized by the presence of only two cusps in the aortic valve instead of the normal three. This malformation can lead to various complications, including aortic stenosis, regurgitation, and an increased risk of aortic aneurysm and dissection. BAV is often asymptomatic in childhood but may present with symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or syncope in later years. The condition is frequently associated with other congenital heart defects, such as coarctation of the aorta and ventricular septal defects. Diagnosis is typically made through echocardiography, which can visualize the valve structure and assess its function. Management may include regular monitoring, medical management of symptoms, and surgical intervention if significant stenosis or regurgitation develops. Understanding the implications of BAV is crucial for pediatric patients, as early detection and intervention can significantly improve long-term outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and associated congenital defects
  • Need for detailed echocardiographic findings for accurate coding
  • Potential for misclassification with other aortic valve abnormalities
  • Documentation of associated conditions and their management

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of valve morphology and function
  • Failure to document associated congenital anomalies
  • Misuse of codes for acquired aortic valve disease
  • Inconsistent follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Pediatric documentation should include detailed descriptions of the patient's symptoms, echocardiographic findings, and any associated congenital anomalies. Growth and development assessments are also important.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include routine follow-up visits for asymptomatic patients, evaluation of symptoms like exertional dyspnea, and preoperative assessments for surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Coders should be aware of the age-related presentation of symptoms and the need for long-term follow-up in pediatric patients with BAV.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic documentation should include family history, any genetic syndromes associated with BAV, and results from genetic testing if applicable.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios may include genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital heart defects and evaluation for syndromic associations.

Billing Considerations

Consideration should be given to the potential genetic basis of BAV and its association with other congenital anomalies.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q23.81 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, congenital conditions like BAV should be coded based on the specific anatomical and functional characteristics of the defect
  • Documentation must support the diagnosis and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q23.81 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

93306CPT Code

Echocardiography, transthoracic, real-time with interpretation and report

Clinical Scenario

Used for initial diagnosis and follow-up of BAV.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include indications for the echocardiogram and findings related to BAV.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric cardiologists should ensure that echocardiographic findings are clearly documented.

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, including BAV, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital heart defects, including BAV, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Heart Association - Congenital Heart Defects

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Heart Association - Congenital Heart Defects

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the long-term implications of a bicuspid aortic valve?

Patients with BAV are at risk for aortic stenosis, regurgitation, and aortic aneurysm. Regular monitoring and timely intervention are crucial to manage these risks effectively.