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Ob-Gyn Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Delve Deep Into 5th Digit Descriptions

Published on Sun Feb 10, 2008

Question: Umbilical cord complication codes 663.13, 63.23, 663.33, and 663.83 occur under the -Complications Occurring Mainly in the Course of Labor and Delivery- category. But for these codes, the fifth digit -3- represents -antepartum condition or complication.- Does this mean that I can use these codes in antepartum? Maine Subscriber Answer: Yes, the patient does not have to be in labor for you to use these umbilical cord complication codes containing a fifth digit of -3.- The NCHS ICD-9-CM Coordination and Maintenance Committee staff has confirmed this opinion.
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