AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-9 - 2011 Quarter 1; Ask the Editor
Postoperative Aspiration Pneumonia
What is the correct code assignment for a diagnosis of postoperative aspiration pneumonia? ICD-9-CM's Tabular List under code 997.39 provides the following inclusion terms: "Pneumonia (aspiration) resulting from a procedure." However, the instructional note under category 997 states, "Use additional code to identify complication." Should code 997.39 , Respiratory complications, Other respiratory complications, be assigned along with code 507.0 , Pneumonitis due to solids and liquids, Due to inhalation of food or vomitus, to describe postsurgical aspiration pneumonia? ...
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This premium coding article explains how to think about a postoperative aspiration pneumonia diagnosis in the context of ICD-9-CM complication coding guidance. It is aimed at coders, billing staff, and compliance professionals who need to understand the relationship between a postoperative respiratory complication category and an additional diagnosis code. The article focuses on code assignment guidance, category instructions, and how the relevant ICD-9-CM references are presented.
Why This Topic Matters
Postoperative respiratory complications can affect claim accuracy, reporting, and compliance, so understanding the applicable ICD-9-CM guidance is important for correct diagnosis coding.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames postoperative aspiration pneumonia within ICD-9-CM complication coding guidance
- What kind of coding references are discussed for postoperative respiratory complications
- How the article approaches the relationship between a complication category and an additional diagnosis code in general terms
- Why this diagnosis scenario is relevant for coding and documentation review
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Billing and reimbursement staff
- Compliance professionals
- Health information management staff
Codes Discussed
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com