Peripheral artery disease of bilateral lower extremity icd 10
Peripheral artery disease of bilateral lower extremity icd 10 Peripheral artery disease (PAD) affecting the bilateral lower extremities is a common circulatory condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of arteries that supply blood to the legs and feet. This condition results from atherosclerosis, where plaque buildup reduces blood flow, leading to symptoms such as claudication, pain, numbness, and in severe cases, tissue loss or gangrene. When PAD affects both legs, it is termed bilateral lower extremity PAD, indicating a more extensive vascular compromise that requires careful diagnosis and management.
The International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10), provides specific codes to categorize this condition, facilitating accurate documentation, research, and billing. For bilateral lower extremity PAD, the primary ICD-10 code is I70.239, which specifies atherosclerosis of native arteries of the lower extremities with intermittent claudication, bilateral. If the disease progresses to more severe stages, such as critical limb ischemia, additional codes like I70.239 can be used with modifiers or additional codes to specify ulceration or gangrene, such as I70.241 or I70.242. Accurate coding ensures appropriate treatment planning and insurance coverage.
Diagnosing bilateral lower extremity PAD involves a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic testing. Clinicians often start with a detailed history and physical examination, assessing symptoms like leg pain during activity and relief with rest. An ankle-brachial index (ABI) test is a primary non-invasive tool that compares blood pressure in the ankles and arms to detect arterial narrowing. An ABI value below 0.9 typically indicates PAD. Further imaging studies, such as Doppler ultrasound, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), or computed tomography angiography (CTA), help visualize the extent and location of arterial blockages.
Management of bilateral lower extremity PAD emphasizes lifestyle modifications, pharmacotherapy, and sometimes invasive interventions. Smoking cessation, regular exercise, and controlling risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia are foundational. Medications such as antiplatelet agents (aspirin or clopidogrel) reduce clot formation, while statins help stabilize atherosclerotic plaques. In cases where lifestyle and medications are insufficient, endovascular procedures like angioplasty or stenting, and in severe cases, surgical bypass, may be necessary to restore adequate blood flow and prevent limb loss.
The prognosis of bilateral lower extremity PAD varies depending on disease severity, comorbid conditions, and treatment adherence. Early detection and comprehensive management can significantly improve quality of life, reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, and prevent limb amputation. Patients should be monitored regularly, with ongoing risk factor modification and adherence to prescribed therapies. Education about symptom recognition and prompt reporting of worsening signs are vital components of long-term care.
In summary, bilateral peripheral artery disease of the lower extremities is a serious vascular condition that impacts mobility and overall health. Correct coding with ICD-10 ensures proper documentation and facilitates optimal management strategies. An interdisciplinary approach, combining lifestyle changes, medication, and possibly surgical intervention, can effectively manage the disease and improve patient outcomes.
