AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS - 2020 Issue 1; Ask the Editor
Repair of Sternal Dehiscence Using Sternal Talon® Device
A patient post-sternotomy presented with sternal dehiscence and underwent debridement of the sternum with insertion of Sternal Talon® plating. The sternum was debrided with a saw and pectoralis flaps were advanced but left connected to the chest wall. Sternal Talon® plates were placed across the sternum beginning at ribs 3-6. Each plate was anchored with screws lateral to the sternum. The sternum and manubrium were reapproximated at the midline with the titanium plates and screws. The pectoralis muscles were sutured together at the fascia level over the plates. The fascia and chest wall were then reapproximated. How is this procedure coded? ...
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Article Overview
This premium article discusses how to approach coding for an open repair of sternal dehiscence using a Sternal Talon® device after sternotomy. It is aimed at coders, CDI specialists, and reimbursement staff who need to understand the procedure context, the relevant ICD-10-PCS assignment, and the broader considerations involved in selecting the correct procedure code.
Why This Topic Matters
Sternal dehiscence repairs can be clinically and procedurally complex, and accurate coding depends on understanding the operative approach and the type of internal fixation used. This article helps readers recognize the procedure scenario and the coding framework applied in ICD-10-PCS.
What You Will Learn
- How this post-sternotomy sternal repair procedure is described in operative terms
- How the procedure context relates to ICD-10-PCS coding
- What kind of coding guidance is associated with rigid internal fixation in this setting
- How to interpret the operative scenario for code assignment purposes
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- CDI specialists
- Revenue cycle staff
- Cardiothoracic surgery coding staff
Codes Discussed
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