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Pediatric Coding Alert

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Get 779.3x's 4th Digit With These Clues

Published on Mon Oct 12, 2009

Question: The expanded 779.3x subcategory codes seem so similar. Can you help me understand their differences? Illinois Subscriber Answer: To guide you in distinguishing between the 779.3x (Disorder of stomach function and feeding problems in newborn) codes, check out these descriptions: • 779.31 (Feeding problems in newborn): Feeding problems may be from underfeeding or overfeeding or trouble with feedings, such as spitting or gagging. Underfeeding results from the infant's failure to take sufficient amounts of milk. Pediatricians often spot this problem when the newborn fails to gain weight appropriate for this age or when the mother notices that the newborn suckles infrequently or for only short periods of time. • 779.32 (Bilious vomiting in newborn): Bilious vomiting is vomiting of gastric contents containing bile, often described as greenish vomitus. • 779.33 (Other vomiting in newborn): Vomiting is the complete emptying of the stomach contents often occurring after feeding. • 779.34 [...]
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