Radiology Coding Alert

The new code set pulls this finding out of the generic 'other' code.

When a radiologist notes abnormal or inconclusive mammography findings, ICD-9 gives you a few different coding options. ICD-10 offers a similar range, but with a few significant changes.

ICD-9 codes: Your ICD-9 options include:

• 793.80, Unspecified abnormal mammogram
• 793.81, Mammographic microcalcification
• 793.82, Inconclusive mammogram

• 793.89, Other (abnormal) findings on radiological examination of breast

Mammographic calcification

Mammographic calculus

ICD-10 codes: Your ICD-10 options include:

• R92.0, Mammographic microcalcification found on diagnostic imaging of breast
• R92.1, Mammographic calcification found on diagnostic imaging of breast Mammographic calculus found on diagnostic imaging of breast
• R92.2, Inconclusive mammogram

Dense breasts NOS

Inconclusive mammogram NEC

Inconclusive mammography due to dense breasts

Inconclusive mammography NEC

• R92.8, Other abnormal and inconclusive findings on diagnostic imaging of breast

ICD-9 coding rules: As you can see from the inclusion notes, ICD-9 assigns 793.89 for mammographic calcification or calculus.

ICD-10 Changes: Unlike ICD-9, ICD-10 gives mammographic calcification or calculus a unique code: R92.1.

Documentation: Because calcifications will no longer be relegated to a generic "other" code when ICD-10 goes into effect Oct. 1, 2013, be sure your provider's documentation allows you to quickly locate this diagnosis. That will simplify choosing the most specific code for the diagnosis.

Coder tips: You may have noticed one additional difference between your ICD-9 and ICD-10 options. ICD-9 includes an "unspecified" code (793.80) and an "other" code (793.89). In contrast, ICD-10 does not offer an "unspecified" code for this range. Instead, you'll have only "other" code R92.8.

Remember: When ICD-10 goes into effect on Oct. 1, 2013, 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.