Spontaneous tension pneumothorax
ICD-10 J93.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of spontaneous tension pneumothorax.
Spontaneous tension pneumothorax is a life-threatening condition characterized by the accumulation of air in the pleural space, leading to increased intrathoracic pressure and compromised respiratory function. This condition can occur spontaneously, often in individuals with underlying lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma, but can also affect healthy individuals. The anatomy involved includes the pleura, which are the membranes surrounding the lungs, and the thoracic cavity. The disease progression can be rapid, with symptoms such as sudden chest pain, dyspnea, tachycardia, and hypotension. Diagnostic considerations include physical examination findings (e.g., decreased breath sounds on the affected side), imaging studies like chest X-ray or CT scan, and clinical assessment of respiratory distress. Prompt recognition and intervention are critical to prevent respiratory failure and other complications.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
J93.0 specifically covers spontaneous tension pneumothorax, which occurs without any preceding trauma or identifiable lung disease, although it may be associated with underlying lung conditions.
J93.0 should be used when the pneumothorax is spontaneous and leads to tension physiology, as opposed to J93.1, which is used for secondary pneumothorax due to underlying lung pathology.
Documentation should include a thorough clinical assessment, imaging results confirming pneumothorax, and notes on the patient's symptoms and treatment interventions.
