AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-9 - 2013 Issue 4; Ask the Editor

Meconium Passage and Meconium Staining

We are requesting clarification on the appropriate code assignment for “meconium passage during delivery” (763.84) and “meconium staining” (779.84). Coding Clinic Fourth Quarter 2005 states, “If medical record documentation only indicates that the newborn passed meconium during delivery assign code 763.84, Meconium passage during delivery. If meconium staining is documented without documentation of aspiration, assign code 779.84, Meconium staining, documented without documentation of aspiration.” In this case, the provider documented, “Evidence of meconium passage before delivery. No laryngoscopy was performed because baby was vigorous at birth. We observed respiratory status closely during hospitalization.” How should meconium passage before delivery be coded? ...

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