AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS - 2020 Issue 4; New/Revised ICD-10-CM Codes
Intravascular Ultrasound Assisted Thrombolysis
Conventional catheter-directed thrombolysis generally uses a multi-side hole catheter placed adjacent to the thrombus. Thrombolytics are then delivered directly to the thrombus via the catheter. Newer technology utilizes pulses of ultrasonic energy to temporarily make the fibrin in the thrombus more porous and increase fluid flow within the thrombus. High frequency, low-intensity ultrasonic waves create a pressure gradient that drives the thrombolytic into the thrombus and keeps it in close proximity to the binding sites. An example of this technology is the EkoSonic® Endovascular System (EKOS™ system). The most common indication for ultrasound assisted thrombolysis is the treatment of...
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Article Overview
This article explains the general concept of ultrasound-assisted thrombolysis and describes the settings in which it is used. It is intended for coding professionals, facility coders, and clinical staff who need a high-level understanding of the procedure and related reporting considerations without disclosing premium coding details.
Why This Topic Matters
Understanding this topic helps readers distinguish ultrasound-assisted thrombolysis from conventional catheter-directed thrombolysis and recognize the broader clinical scenarios where it may be used. It also helps facilities identify that thrombolytic administration may be reported separately under the applicable procedure code family.
What You Will Learn
- The basic concept behind ultrasound-assisted thrombolysis
- How the therapy differs in general terms from conventional catheter-directed thrombolysis
- The common clinical settings in which the therapy is used
- That facility reporting may involve separate thrombolytic administration coding considerations
Who Should Read This
- Facility coders
- Coding auditors
- Revenue cycle staff
- Clinical documentation specialists
- Interventional radiology staff
Codes Discussed
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