AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS - 2015 Issue 2; Ask the Editor
Thoracoscopic Talc Pleurodesis
A patient with recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax presents for right talc pleurodesis via video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). A right-sided thoracoscopy was performed, and followed by placement of an additional port with injection of talc within the right chest. How should this procedure be coded? What is the appropriate approach value? ...
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Article Overview
This article explains coding considerations for a thoracoscopic talc pleurodesis performed for recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax. It focuses on the ICD-10-PCS procedure classification, the relevant body-system concept, and the general issue of how the thoracoscopic access is represented when the preferred approach term is not available. The content is aimed at coders, CDI staff, and HIM professionals reviewing operative reports for thoracic procedures.
Why This Topic Matters
Pleurodesis cases can be coded differently depending on how the procedure is classified in ICD-10-PCS, so understanding the procedure framework helps support accurate procedure selection and consistent abstraction from operative documentation.
What You Will Learn
- How a thoracoscopic talc pleurodesis is discussed in ICD-10-PCS terms
- How the article frames the procedure as a pleural cavity intervention
- How the approach concept is addressed in a VATS-based thoracic case
- Why procedure classification matters for recurrent pneumothorax cases
Who Should Read This
- Inpatient coders
- HIM professionals
- Clinical documentation integrity specialists
- Coding educators
Code Ranges Discussed
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