In simple words: Chronic cor pulmonale is a heart problem that affects the right side of your heart. It happens when a lung condition makes it harder for blood to flow through the lungs, putting a strain on the right side of the heart. Over time, this can cause the right side of the heart to become enlarged and weak.

Chronic cor pulmonale is a condition characterized by right ventricular enlargement and dysfunction due to a primary lung disorder that causes pulmonary artery hypertension. It develops over time, unlike acute cor pulmonale. It's often associated with underlying conditions like COPD, interstitial lung disease, or other respiratory issues leading to increased pressure in the pulmonary artery. This increased pressure forces the right ventricle to work harder, eventually leading to its enlargement and potential failure.

Example 1: A patient with a long history of COPD experiences worsening shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs. Echocardiography reveals right ventricular enlargement and dysfunction, confirming a diagnosis of chronic cor pulmonale., A patient with interstitial lung disease develops progressive exertional dyspnea and peripheral edema. Further cardiac workup shows right ventricular hypertrophy and reduced ejection fraction, leading to a diagnosis of chronic cor pulmonale secondary to the underlying lung disease., A patient with a history of pulmonary emboli develops persistent shortness of breath and signs of right heart strain. Imaging studies reveal chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular dysfunction, consistent with chronic cor pulmonale.

Documentation for I27.81 should include evidence of the underlying lung condition causing pulmonary hypertension, such as COPD, interstitial lung disease, etc., and confirmation of right ventricular enlargement or dysfunction through imaging studies like echocardiography or right heart catheterization. Documentation of associated signs and symptoms, such as dyspnea, fatigue, and edema, is also important.