In simple words: This code describes a birth defect where there's a hole in the wall separating the two lower chambers of the heart.This hole allows blood to flow abnormally between these chambers.

Q21.0, Ventricular septal defect (VSD), is an ICD-10-CM code representing a congenital cardiac anomaly characterized by an abnormal opening in the interventricular septum, the wall separating the heart's two lower chambers (ventricles). This defect allows for abnormal blood flow between the ventricles, potentially leading to various clinical manifestations depending on the size and location of the VSD.The diagnosis requires confirmation through appropriate imaging techniques like echocardiography.

Example 1: A newborn infant presents with a heart murmur detected during a routine physical examination.Echocardiography reveals a small ventricular septal defect, requiring ongoing monitoring for potential complications., A 6-year-old child experiences recurring respiratory infections and shortness of breath.Cardiac evaluation reveals a large VSD causing significant left-to-right shunting and pulmonary hypertension.Surgical intervention is recommended., A pregnant woman undergoes fetal echocardiography which reveals a large VSD in her unborn child.The parents are counseled regarding the diagnosis and potential treatment options after birth, including surgical repair or medical management.

Detailed history and physical examination notes, echocardiogram reports (including images and measurements of the VSD), any additional cardiac imaging studies (e.g., cardiac catheterization), and relevant laboratory results (e.g., oxygen saturation levels, blood gas analysis).Documentation of any associated symptoms (e.g., shortness of breath, fatigue, cyanosis) and treatment plan.

** Codes from chapter Q (Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities) are not for use on maternal records.This code should not be used for acquired cardiac septal defects; code I51.0 should be used instead.