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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ21.15

Q21.15

Billable

Inferior sinus venosus atrial septal defect

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 Q21.15 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of inferior sinus venosus atrial septal defect.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Inferior sinus venosus atrial septal defect (ASD) is a congenital heart defect characterized by an abnormal opening between the right atrium and left atrium, specifically located near the inferior vena cava. This defect allows oxygen-rich blood from the left atrium to flow into the right atrium, leading to increased blood flow to the right side of the heart and lungs. Over time, this can result in right atrial and ventricular enlargement, pulmonary hypertension, and heart failure if left untreated. Patients may present with symptoms such as exercise intolerance, fatigue, and palpitations, although many may remain asymptomatic in early childhood. Diagnosis typically involves echocardiography, which can visualize the defect and assess hemodynamic significance. Treatment options may include surgical repair or catheter-based interventions, depending on the size of the defect and the presence of associated anomalies. Early detection and management are crucial to prevent long-term complications associated with this condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and symptomatology
  • Need for precise anatomical localization of the defect
  • Potential for associated congenital anomalies
  • Variations in treatment approaches and coding for interventions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the defect's size and hemodynamic impact
  • Failure to document associated congenital anomalies
  • Misclassification of the defect type
  • Inconsistent coding of surgical interventions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Pediatric documentation should include growth parameters, developmental milestones, and specific symptoms related to the congenital heart defect.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include routine pediatric check-ups where a heart murmur is detected, leading to further evaluation and diagnosis of ASD.

Billing Considerations

Consideration must be given to the age of the patient and the timing of interventions, as well as the potential for long-term follow-up.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic documentation should include family history of congenital heart defects and any genetic syndromes associated with ASD.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios may involve genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital heart disease or syndromic presentations.

Billing Considerations

Genetic testing may be indicated in cases with multiple congenital anomalies or family history of chromosomal abnormalities.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q21.15 When
  • Official coding guidelines for congenital conditions emphasize the importance of accurate documentation of the defect's anatomical location, associated anomalies, and any interventions performed
  • Coders should ensure that all relevant clinical information is captured to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q21.15 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

33641CPT Code

Closure of atrial septal defect

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient undergoes surgical closure of an inferior sinus venosus ASD.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric cardiology specialists should provide detailed operative notes.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital heart defects, including inferior sinus venosus ASD, which enhances the ability to track and manage these conditions effectively.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital heart defects, including inferior sinus venosus ASD, which enhances the ability to track and manage these conditions effectively.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital heart defects, including inferior sinus venosus ASD, which enhances the ability to track and manage these conditions effectively.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Pediatrics - Congenital Heart Disease

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Pediatrics - Congenital Heart Disease

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of coding inferior sinus venosus ASD accurately?

Accurate coding of inferior sinus venosus ASD is crucial for appropriate management and treatment planning. It ensures that healthcare providers can track outcomes, allocate resources effectively, and provide the necessary follow-up care for patients with this congenital condition.