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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesI97.0

I97.0

Billable

Postcardiotomy syndrome

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

Code Description

ICD-10 I97.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of postcardiotomy syndrome.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Postcardiotomy syndrome, also known as post-pericardiotomy syndrome, is a complication that can occur after cardiac surgery, particularly following procedures involving the heart or pericardium. Clinically, it presents with symptoms such as fever, pleuritic chest pain, and pericardial effusion, which may develop weeks to months post-surgery. The syndrome is thought to be an autoimmune response to the surgical trauma, leading to inflammation of the pericardium and pleura. Anatomically, the heart and surrounding structures, including the pericardium, are involved, and the inflammatory process can result in significant morbidity if not recognized and treated promptly. Disease progression can vary; some patients may experience mild symptoms that resolve spontaneously, while others may develop more severe manifestations requiring intervention. Diagnostic considerations include imaging studies such as echocardiography to assess for effusions and laboratory tests to evaluate inflammatory markers. Early recognition and management are crucial to prevent complications such as cardiac tamponade or chronic constrictive pericarditis.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires understanding of post-surgical complications and differential diagnoses.
  • Treatment complexity: Management may involve both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical documentation is necessary to support the diagnosis.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate coding to differentiate from other post-surgical complications.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with other post-surgical complications.
  • Documentation gaps: Insufficient clinical details to support the diagnosis.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if documentation does not clearly establish the link to cardiac surgery.

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

Postcardiotomy syndrome has significant clinical implications, as it can lead to prolonged hospital stays and increased healthcare costs. Understanding its epidemiology is crucial, as it affects a subset of patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Quality measures may include monitoring for early signs of the syndrome to improve patient outcomes and reduce readmission rates.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Postcardiotomy syndrome has significant clinical implications, as it can lead to prolonged hospital stays and increased healthcare costs. Understanding its epidemiology is crucial, as it affects a subset of patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Quality measures may include monitoring for early signs of the syndrome to improve patient outcomes and reduce readmission rates.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the diagnosis is clearly linked to the surgical procedure performed. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to establish the connection between the surgery and the syndrome. Best practices include thorough clinical notes, timely follow-ups, and clear communication of the patient's condition to support the claim.

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 I97.0?

I97.0 specifically covers postcardiotomy syndrome, which includes symptoms such as fever, chest pain, and pericardial effusion following cardiac surgery. It is important to differentiate it from other post-surgical complications.

When should I97.0 be used instead of related codes?

I97.0 should be used when the patient presents with postcardiotomy syndrome without significant effusion. If effusion is present, I97.1 would be more appropriate.

What documentation supports I97.0?

Documentation should include details of the surgical procedure, onset of symptoms, clinical findings, and any imaging or laboratory results that support the diagnosis of postcardiotomy syndrome.