ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ34.8

Q34.8

Billable

Other specified congenital malformations of respiratory system

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q34.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified congenital malformations of respiratory system.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital malformations of the respiratory system encompass a variety of structural anomalies that can significantly impact respiratory function in neonates and children. Among these, choanal atresia is a condition where the nasal passage is blocked or absent, leading to severe respiratory distress, particularly in newborns. Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is another critical anomaly where an abnormal connection forms between the trachea and esophagus, often associated with esophageal atresia, complicating feeding and breathing. Lung hypoplasia, characterized by underdeveloped lungs, can result from various factors, including congenital diaphragmatic hernia or oligohydramnios, leading to inadequate respiratory function. These conditions require careful diagnosis, often through imaging studies and clinical evaluation, and may necessitate surgical intervention. The management of these congenital malformations is complex and requires a multidisciplinary approach, including pediatricians, surgeons, and respiratory therapists, to optimize outcomes for affected children.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and severity of conditions
  • Need for detailed clinical documentation to support coding
  • Potential for multiple associated congenital anomalies
  • Differentiation from acquired respiratory conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the specific congenital anomaly
  • Failure to capture associated conditions or syndromes
  • Misclassification of congenital versus acquired conditions
  • Lack of clarity in surgical intervention details

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Pediatric documentation must include detailed clinical notes on the patient's respiratory status, any interventions performed, and follow-up care plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include newborns presenting with respiratory distress, requiring immediate evaluation for congenital anomalies.

Billing Considerations

Accurate coding requires awareness of the developmental timeline of respiratory conditions and their potential impact on growth and development.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic documentation should include family history, genetic testing results, and any syndromic associations with respiratory anomalies.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios may involve genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital malformations or syndromes associated with respiratory issues.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of chromosomal abnormalities that may predispose to respiratory malformations is crucial for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q34.8 When
  • According to official coding guidelines, congenital conditions should be coded based on the specific malformation and any associated conditions
  • Documentation must clearly indicate the nature of the malformation and any interventions performed

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q34.8 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

31500CPT Code

Intubation, endotracheal, emergency

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of acute respiratory distress due to congenital malformations.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for intubation and any associated congenital conditions.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric specialists should ensure that the urgency of the situation is clearly documented.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital malformations, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes for these complex conditions.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital malformations, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes for these complex conditions.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes for these complex conditions.

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 are the common congenital malformations of the respiratory system?

Common congenital malformations include choanal atresia, tracheoesophageal fistula, and lung hypoplasia, each presenting unique challenges in diagnosis and management.