AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS - 2022 Issue 2; Ask the Editor
Segmental and Subsegmental Pulmonary Emboli
The patient had a chest computerized tomography angiography (CTA) which revealed pulmonary emboli in the segmental branches of the right middle and lower lobes of the lung. The radiologist also noted emboli in the subsegmental branches of the right and left lobes of the lung. The provider’s final diagnostic statement listed “Segmental and subsegmental pulmonary emboli.” How should segmental and subsegmental pulmonary emboli be coded? ...
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Article Overview
This premium article explains how to approach a pulmonary embolism coding scenario when imaging and the provider’s final diagnosis reference both segmental and subsegmental involvement. It is relevant to coders, CDI staff, auditors, and clinicians who document or review pulmonary embolism diagnoses. The article focuses on code selection guidance for this clinical situation and the reasoning behind the recommended coding approach.
Why This Topic Matters
Pulmonary embolism documentation can vary across imaging, radiology impressions, and final provider statements, and that variation can affect coding accuracy. This article helps users understand the coding implications of a combined segmental and subsegmental presentation so claims and records align with the documented diagnosis.
What You Will Learn
- How a pulmonary embolism scenario with both segmental and subsegmental findings is addressed in coding guidance.
- What aspects of the documentation are relevant to the coding discussion.
- How the article frames the recommended approach for this type of diagnosis statement.
- Questions answered?
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Clinical documentation improvement (CDI) specialists
- Physicians and other documenting providers
- Revenue cycle staff
Codes Discussed
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