Cardiology Coding Alert

Don't miss the role of Z87.74 when coding this diagnosis.

You'll have to mind your Z's and Q's when reporting congenital heart defect diagnoses under the ICD-10-CM code set. Here's what you need to know for patent ductus areteriosus.

ICD-9-CM Code

• 747.0, Patent ductus arteriosus

ICD-10-CM Code

• Q25.0, Patent ductus arteriosus

Diagnosis: With patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), abnormal blood flow occurs between the aorta and the pulmonary artery. This is a congenital heart defect.

ICD-9 coding rules: Code 747.0 applies to patent ductus botalli (sometime called Botallo's) and persistent ductus arteriosus.

ICD-10 changes: Code Q25.0 applies to the same diagnoses 747.0 does, according to notes with the code.

Documentation: You should not separately code manifestations that are an inherent component of the PDA. You may code manifestations that aren't inherent. Work with providers to ensure you can determine which components are and aren't inherent so your coding complies with official guidelines.

Coder tips: "If a congenital malformation or deformity has been corrected, a personal history code should be used to identify the history of the malformation or deformity," coding guidelines state. That means considering Z87.74 (Personal history of [corrected] congenital malformations of heart and circulatory system).

Remember: CMS has finalized the ICD-10 compliance date of Oct. 1, 2014, as stated in the Sept. 5, 2012, Federal Register. The announcement ended months of speculation that began in April when CMS proposed delaying the original Oct. 1, 2013, implementation date. When ICD-10-CM goes into effect, you should apply the code set and official guidelines in effect for the date of service reported. Learn more at www.cms.gov/ICD10/ and www.cdc.gov/nchs/icd/icd10cm.htm#10update.