Understand Atrioventricular Block (AV Block or Heart Block) diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment. Find information on AV block types, including first-degree, second-degree (Mobitz I Wenckebach, Mobitz II), and third-degree (complete) heart block. This resource covers clinical documentation, ECG interpretation, medical coding, and healthcare guidelines related to Atrioventricular Block. Learn about the causes, risk factors, and management of heart block for accurate clinical documentation and coding.
Also known as
Atrioventricular and left bundle branch block
Covers various degrees of AV block and left bundle branch block.
Other specified conduction disorders
Includes other specified conduction disorders like AV block not otherwise specified.
Other specified cardiac arrhythmias
May be applicable if AV block manifests as an unspecified arrhythmia.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the AV block congenital?
Yes
First degree?
No
First degree?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Delayed or blocked heart electrical signals. |
| Slow heart rate, less than 60 bpm. |
| Rapid heart rate, more than 100 bpm. |
Coding requires specifying the degree (first, second, third) for accurate reimbursement and clinical documentation integrity.
Documentation must include the underlying etiology of the AV block (e.g., ischemia, fibrosis) for proper coding and risk adjustment.
Presence of a pacemaker or other cardiac device influences coding and requires careful documentation of its relationship to the AV block.
Q: What are the key electrocardiographic (ECG) features that differentiate first-degree, second-degree (Mobitz I/Wenckebach and Mobitz II), and third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block?
A: Accurate ECG interpretation is crucial for distinguishing the various types of AV block. First-degree AV block is characterized by a prolonged PR interval (>200ms) without dropped QRS complexes. Second-degree AV block, Mobitz I (Wenckebach), presents with progressively lengthening PR intervals until a QRS complex is dropped, followed by a return to the initial PR interval. Mobitz II, however, shows consistent PR intervals with intermittent dropped QRS complexes. Third-degree (complete) AV block is marked by complete dissociation between P waves and QRS complexes, with the atria and ventricles paced independently. Consider implementing a systematic ECG interpretation strategy for accurate AV block diagnosis. Explore how S10.AI can assist in rapid and precise ECG analysis.
Q: How do I manage a hemodynamically unstable patient presenting with a new-onset, complete heart block (third-degree AV block)?
A: New-onset complete heart block causing hemodynamic instability demands immediate intervention. Secure the airway, provide supplemental oxygen, and establish intravenous access. Atropine may be administered initially, but often proves ineffective. Transcutaneous pacing should be initiated promptly as a bridge to transvenous pacing. Identify and treat the underlying cause, which might include myocardial infarction, medications, or electrolyte imbalances. Learn more about the ACLS guidelines for managing bradycardia and AV block. Explore how S10.AI can facilitate timely recognition and management of critical cardiac arrhythmias.
Patient presents with symptoms suggestive of atrioventricular block (AV block, heart block). Presenting complaints include dizziness, lightheadedness, syncope, fatigue, shortness of breath, and palpitations. Electrocardiogram (ECG, EKG) findings demonstrate [Specify degree of AV block: first-degree AV block (prolonged PR interval), second-degree AV block Mobitz type I (Wenckebach phenomenon with progressively lengthening PR interval followed by a dropped beat), second-degree AV block Mobitz type II (consistent PR interval with intermittently non-conducted P waves), or third-degree AV block (complete heart block with no association between P waves and QRS complexes)]. Assessment includes evaluation for underlying causes such as ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, electrolyte imbalances, medication effects (e.g., beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers), and age-related degenerative changes. Differential diagnosis includes sinus bradycardia, sinus node dysfunction, and other conduction system abnormalities. Treatment plan considers the severity of symptoms, hemodynamic stability, and underlying etiology. Options include observation for asymptomatic first-degree AV block, medication adjustments if drug-induced, temporary pacing for symptomatic bradycardia, and permanent pacemaker implantation for advanced or persistent high-grade AV block. Patient education provided regarding symptoms of worsening heart block and the importance of follow-up care. ICD-10 code [Specify code based on type and etiology of AV Block e.g., I44.0, I44.1, I44.2, I44.3] is documented for medical billing and coding purposes. The patient's prognosis and long-term management strategy will be discussed at their next cardiology appointment.