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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG90.01

G90.01

Billable

Carotid sinus syncope

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G90.01 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of carotid sinus syncope.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Carotid sinus syncope is a form of reflex syncope that occurs due to excessive stimulation of the carotid sinus, which is a baroreceptor located in the carotid artery. This condition is characterized by transient loss of consciousness, often triggered by neck movements, tight collars, or pressure on the carotid artery. The syncope results from a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure, leading to decreased cerebral perfusion. Patients may experience symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, which can pose risks of falls and injuries. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical history, physical examination, and may include carotid sinus massage or tilt-table testing to provoke the response. Management strategies focus on lifestyle modifications, avoidance of triggers, and in some cases, the use of pacemakers for recurrent episodes. Understanding the autonomic nervous system's role in this condition is crucial, as it highlights the interplay between cardiovascular and neurological functions.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of autonomic nervous system disorders
  • Differentiation from other types of syncope
  • Potential overlap with other cardiovascular conditions
  • Need for precise documentation of triggers and symptoms

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and triggers
  • Failure to differentiate from other syncope types
  • Lack of supporting diagnostic tests in the medical record
  • Misuse of related codes that do not accurately reflect the condition

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Cardiology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of syncope episodes, triggers, and cardiovascular assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with recurrent syncope, particularly with a history of carotid artery disease.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should include any cardiovascular evaluations and responses to carotid sinus massage.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Neurological assessments, including autonomic function tests and differential diagnosis considerations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with unexplained syncope or those with neurological symptoms accompanying syncope.

Billing Considerations

Focus on ruling out other neurological disorders that may mimic carotid sinus syncope.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G90.01 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, G90
  • 01 should be used when the syncope is specifically attributed to carotid sinus hypersensitivity
  • It is important to document the clinical context and any relevant diagnostic tests performed

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G90.01 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

93000CPT Code

Electrocardiogram, ECG, routine ECG with at least 12 leads; with interpretation and report

Clinical Scenario

Used in conjunction with G90.01 when evaluating cardiac causes of syncope.

Documentation Requirements

ECG results must be documented in the patient's medical record.

Specialty Considerations

Cardiology specialists should ensure comprehensive cardiac evaluations are included.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like carotid sinus syncope, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better patient management and research.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like carotid sinus syncope, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better patient management and research.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 triggers carotid sinus syncope?

Carotid sinus syncope can be triggered by neck movements, tight collars, or pressure on the carotid artery, leading to a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure.

How is carotid sinus syncope diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a detailed clinical history, physical examination, and may include carotid sinus massage or tilt-table testing to provoke the syncope response.