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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesI71.0

I71.0

Non-billable

Dissection of aorta

BILLABLE STATUSNo
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 I71.0 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of dissection of aorta.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Dissection of the aorta is a serious cardiovascular condition characterized by a tear in the inner layer of the aortic wall, leading to the separation of the layers of the aorta. This condition can occur in any segment of the aorta, but it most commonly affects the ascending aorta. Clinical presentation may include sudden onset of severe chest or back pain, often described as a 'tearing' sensation, along with symptoms such as syncope, shortness of breath, or neurological deficits if the dissection compromises blood flow to vital organs. The disease progression can be rapid, with potential complications including aortic rupture, cardiac tamponade, or organ ischemia. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as CT angiography, MRI, or transesophageal echocardiography to visualize the aorta and assess the extent of the dissection. Timely diagnosis and intervention are critical to improve outcomes and reduce mortality associated with this life-threatening condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires advanced imaging and clinical evaluation.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve surgical intervention or endovascular repair.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and imaging reports are essential.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate between types of dissections and related complications.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of dissection types or failure to document complications.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes or lack of imaging reports.
  • Billing challenges: Denials due to insufficient documentation or incorrect coding.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Cardiology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Cardiothoracic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical significance of aortic dissection is profound, as it can lead to high morbidity and mortality if not promptly diagnosed and treated. Population health impact includes a relatively low prevalence but high incidence in at-risk populations, particularly among individuals with hypertension or connective tissue disorders. Quality measures focus on timely diagnosis and intervention, while healthcare utilization patterns reflect the need for emergency care and surgical intervention in acute cases. Epidemiologically, understanding the risk factors and outcomes associated with aortic dissection is crucial for improving patient care and outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of aortic dissection is profound, as it can lead to high morbidity and mortality if not promptly diagnosed and treated. Population health impact includes a relatively low prevalence but high incidence in at-risk populations, particularly among individuals with hypertension or connective tissue disorders. Quality measures focus on timely diagnosis and intervention, while healthcare utilization patterns reflect the need for emergency care and surgical intervention in acute cases. Epidemiologically, understanding the risk factors and outcomes associated with aortic dissection is crucial for improving patient care and outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the severity of the condition and the complexity of the treatment provided. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or lack of clarity in the coding. It is essential to ensure that all relevant clinical information is included in the patient's medical record to facilitate accurate billing and reduce the risk of audits.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for I00-I99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for I00-I99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by I71.0?

I71.0 specifically covers aortic dissection, which includes types such as Stanford Type A (involving the ascending aorta) and Type B (involving the descending aorta). It is crucial to differentiate between these types for accurate coding and treatment planning.

When should I71.0 be used instead of related codes?

I71.0 should be used when there is a confirmed diagnosis of aortic dissection with clear clinical evidence. It is important to use this code when the dissection is acute and symptomatic, as opposed to I71.1, which may be used for unspecified dissections.

What documentation supports I71.0?

Documentation supporting I71.0 should include detailed clinical notes describing the patient's symptoms, results from imaging studies confirming the dissection, and any interventions performed. It is also important to document the patient's history and risk factors for aortic disease.