Congenital pharyngeal pouch
ICD-10 Q38.7 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital pharyngeal pouch.
Congenital pharyngeal pouch, also known as a pharyngeal diverticulum, is a rare congenital malformation characterized by the formation of a pouch in the pharyngeal wall. This condition typically arises from an abnormality in the development of the pharynx during embryogenesis. The pouch can lead to swallowing difficulties, aspiration, and respiratory complications due to the accumulation of food or secretions. In pediatric patients, it may present with symptoms such as chronic cough, recurrent respiratory infections, and failure to thrive. Diagnosis is often made through imaging studies such as a barium swallow or endoscopy. Treatment usually involves surgical intervention to excise the pouch and prevent complications. The condition may be associated with other congenital anomalies, particularly those affecting the respiratory system, such as choanal atresia, tracheoesophageal fistula, and lung hypoplasia, which can complicate the clinical picture and management.
Detailed clinical notes on symptoms, diagnostic imaging, and treatment plans are essential for accurate coding.
Pediatric patients presenting with feeding difficulties, recurrent respiratory infections, or failure to thrive due to congenital pharyngeal pouch.
Consideration of the patient's age and developmental milestones is crucial in pediatric coding.
Genetic testing results and family history documentation are important for understanding potential chromosomal abnormalities.
Cases where congenital pharyngeal pouch is part of a syndrome with known genetic implications.
Awareness of syndromic associations and the need for genetic counseling in affected families.
Used to visualize the pharyngeal pouch during diagnosis.
Document indications for the procedure and findings.
Pediatric gastroenterology may be involved in the procedure.
Performed to treat the congenital pharyngeal pouch.
Detailed operative notes and post-operative care plans are essential.
Surgical documentation must include indications and outcomes.
Common symptoms include difficulty swallowing, recurrent respiratory infections, aspiration, and failure to thrive in infants. These symptoms arise due to the accumulation of food or secretions in the pouch, leading to complications.
