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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD17.7

D17.7

Billable

Benign lipomatous neoplasm of other sites

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 D17.7 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of benign lipomatous neoplasm of other sites.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Benign lipomatous neoplasms, commonly referred to as lipomas, are soft tissue tumors composed of adipose (fat) tissue. They are typically slow-growing, painless, and can occur in various locations throughout the body, including subcutaneous tissues, muscles, and internal organs. While most lipomas are asymptomatic and do not require treatment, they can sometimes cause discomfort or functional impairment depending on their size and location. The diagnosis is usually made through clinical examination and imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, which help differentiate them from malignant tumors. Surgical excision is the most common treatment for symptomatic lipomas or those that are cosmetically concerning. Surveillance is generally not required for benign lipomatous neoplasms unless there are changes in size or symptoms that warrant further investigation. Although the risk of malignant transformation is extremely low, it is essential to monitor any changes in the neoplasm's characteristics, as atypical lipomatous tumors can mimic benign lipomas.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and location of lipomas
  • Need for differentiation from malignant tumors
  • Potential for misclassification with atypical lipomatous tumors
  • Documentation of symptoms and treatment rationale

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the neoplasm's characteristics
  • Failure to document the location of the lipoma
  • Misclassification of benign versus malignant tumors
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for surveillance

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes including size, location, and histopathology of the lipoma.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical excision of symptomatic lipomas or those causing functional impairment.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the rationale for surgery and any complications.

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Clinical notes detailing the appearance, size, and symptoms associated with the lipoma.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of lipomas during routine skin examinations.

Billing Considerations

Document any changes in size or symptoms to justify follow-up or intervention.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D17.7 When
  • According to the official coding guidelines, D17
  • 7 should be used when documenting benign lipomatous neoplasms located in unspecified or other sites
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that the neoplasm is confirmed as benign

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D17.7 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11400CPT Code

Excision, benign lesion

Clinical Scenario

Used when a lipoma is excised surgically.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, size, and location of the lipoma.

Specialty Considerations

Surgeons should document the rationale for excision and any complications.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign lipomatous neoplasms, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. D17.7 provides a clear distinction for lipomas located in unspecified sites, enhancing clinical documentation and coding practices.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign lipomatous neoplasms, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. D17.7 provides a clear distinction for lipomas located in unspecified sites, enhancing clinical documentation and coding practices.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. D17.7 provides a clear distinction for lipomas located in unspecified sites, enhancing clinical documentation and coding practices.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a lipoma and a malignant tumor?

Lipomas are benign tumors composed of fat tissue, typically slow-growing and painless, while malignant tumors are cancerous and can invade surrounding tissues and metastasize. Accurate diagnosis through imaging and histological examination is crucial.