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2025 ICD-10-CM code I82.71

Chronic embolism and thrombosis affecting the superficial veins of the upper extremity.

Appropriate laterality codes (I82.711, I82.712, I82.713, I82.719) should be used to specify the affected side(s) of the upper extremity.If there's associated long-term anticoagulant use, code Z79.01 should be added.Excludes1 and Excludes2 notes should be carefully considered to ensure appropriate code selection.

Modifiers may be applicable depending on the specific circumstances of the encounter and the services provided (e.g., bilateral involvement, multiple areas of involvement). Consult appropriate coding guidelines.

Medical necessity is established by the presence of symptoms related to chronic venous thrombosis (pain, swelling, discoloration, ulceration) and confirmation of the diagnosis via appropriate imaging studies.Treatment is medically necessary to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications (e.g., pulmonary embolism), and improve quality of life.

The clinical responsibility involves the diagnosis and management of chronic venous insufficiency, including assessment of symptoms (pain, swelling, discoloration), physical examination (palpation, inspection), and diagnostic testing (Doppler ultrasound, venography). Treatment may involve compression therapy, lifestyle modifications, and in some cases, surgical intervention or thrombolytic therapy.

IMPORTANT:Related codes include I82.70 (unspecified veins of upper extremity), I82.72 (deep veins of upper extremity), and I82.61 (acute embolism and thrombosis of superficial veins of upper extremity).Additional codes may be needed to specify laterality (right, left, bilateral) and associated conditions, such as long-term anticoagulant use (Z79.01).

In simple words: This code describes a long-term problem with blood clots or blockages in the veins near the surface of the arm.It's a chronic condition, meaning it lasts a long time.

This code signifies chronic (long-standing) blood clots (thrombosis) and/or blockages (embolism) within the superficial veins of the upper limb.This includes veins near the surface of the arm, such as the cephalic, basilic, and antecubital veins.The condition is considered chronic, meaning it has been present for an extended duration.Additional codes may be necessary to specify laterality (left, right, bilateral) and to indicate associated long-term anticoagulant use (Z79.01).

Example 1: A 60-year-old female presents with persistent swelling and discoloration in her left arm, lasting for several months. Doppler ultrasound confirms chronic thrombosis in the superficial veins of her left upper extremity.Code I82.712 is assigned., A 45-year-old male reports a long history of varicose veins in his right arm, with recent onset of pain and increased swelling.Physical examination reveals palpable cords along the superficial veins.Doppler ultrasound shows chronic thrombosis and I82.711 is utilized., A 72-year-old patient with a history of atrial fibrillation is admitted to the hospital with bilateral arm swelling and discoloration. Imaging confirms chronic superficial vein thrombosis in both arms. Code I82.713 is used to reflect bilateral involvement.

Detailed patient history including duration of symptoms, location of affected veins, presence of risk factors (e.g., immobility, prior DVT, hypercoagulability), and any related medical conditions.Results of physical examination, including assessment of swelling, tenderness, and discoloration.Imaging studies, such as Doppler ultrasound or venography, confirming the diagnosis of chronic superficial vein thrombosis and its location.Documentation should support the chronic nature of the condition.

** This code should not be used if the embolism and/or thrombosis is acute (I82.61).It is crucial to accurately document the chronicity of the condition to ensure appropriate code assignment.Always refer to the latest official ICD-10-CM coding guidelines for the most up-to-date information.

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