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H34.819
ICD-10-CM
Central Retinal Vein Occlusion

Learn about Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO), a retinal vein occlusion impacting central vision. This resource provides information on CRVO diagnosis, clinical documentation for accurate medical coding, and healthcare management. Find details on symptoms, treatment, and prognosis for retinal vein occlusion. Understand the importance of proper coding for CRVO in a healthcare setting.

Also known as

CRVO
Retinal Vein Occlusion

Diagnosis Snapshot

Key Facts
  • Definition : Blockage of the central retinal vein, leading to retinal swelling and vision loss.
  • Clinical Signs : Sudden painless blurred or lost vision, retinal hemorrhages, dilated veins, cotton wool spots.
  • Common Settings : Ophthalmology or retinal specialist clinic, emergency room for sudden vision loss.

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to AAPC H34.819 Coding
H34.83

Other retinal vascular occlusions

Covers central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO).

H34.8

Other retinal vascular occlusions

Includes unspecified retinal vein occlusion.

H34

Disorders of retinal vessels

Encompasses various retinal vessel conditions, including occlusions.

H00-H59

Diseases of the eye and adnexa

Broad category for all eye-related disorders.

Code-Specific Guidance

Decision Tree for

Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.

Is the central retinal vein occlusion unilateral or bilateral?

  • Unilateral

    Is it specified as non-ischemic?

  • Bilateral

    Is it specified as non-ischemic?

Code Comparison

Related Codes Comparison

When to use each related code

Description
Blockage of central retinal vein
Blockage of branch retinal vein
Ischemic central retinal vein occlusion

Documentation Best Practices

Documentation Checklist
  • Document visual acuity in both eyes.
  • Describe funduscopic exam findings (e.g., retinal hemorrhages, optic disc edema).
  • Specify if ischemic or non-ischemic CRVO.
  • Note presence/absence of macular edema.
  • Record any relevant medical history (e.g., hypertension, diabetes).

Coding and Audit Risks

Common Risks
  • Laterality Coding

    Missing or incorrect laterality (right, left, bilateral) for CRVO impacts reimbursement and data accuracy. CDI can query for laterality documentation.

  • Ischemic vs. Non-Ischemic

    Distinguishing between ischemic and non-ischemic CRVO is crucial for accurate coding (H34.81 vs. H34.83) and affects severity reflection.

  • Underlying Conditions

    Coding for coexisting conditions like glaucoma or hypertension with CRVO is essential for accurate risk adjustment and treatment planning. CDI can clarify documentation.

Mitigation Tips

Best Practices
  • Timely ophthalmology referral for CRVO diagnosis (ICD-10 H34.83, ICD-9 362.36)
  • Document CRVO laterality, acuity, visual field defects for accurate coding
  • Assess CRVO risk factors: hypertension, diabetes, glaucoma (ICD codes)
  • Manage CRVO complications: macular edema, neovascularization (proper CDI)
  • Comply with quality metrics for CRVO: anti-VEGF therapy documentation

Clinical Decision Support

Checklist
  • Confirm sudden, painless vision loss/blurring in one eye.
  • Document afferent pupillary defect and visual acuity.
  • Funduscopy: Disc swelling, retinal hemorrhages, venous dilation.
  • Assess risk factors: hypertension, diabetes, glaucoma, hypercoagulability.
  • Consider OCT and fluorescein angiography for ischemia evaluation.

Reimbursement and Quality Metrics

Impact Summary
  • Medical billing CRVO: ICD-10 H34.81, optimize reimbursement for retinal vein occlusion.
  • Coding accuracy: CRVO diagnosis impacts DRG assignment, avoid denials with precise coding.
  • Hospital reporting: CRVO data affects quality metrics related to vascular events and eye care.
  • Reimbursement impact: CRVO severity (ischemic vs. non-ischemic) influences payment.

Streamline Your Medical Coding

Let S10.AI help you select the most accurate ICD-10 codes. Our AI-powered assistant ensures compliance and reduces coding errors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions and Answers

Q: What are the key differentiating factors in diagnosing central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) vs. branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) in clinical practice?

A: Differentiating between CRVO and BRVO hinges on the location and extent of retinal vein obstruction. CRVO involves the central retinal vein, resulting in widespread retinal hemorrhages and venous dilation throughout the retina, often described as 'blood and thunder' fundus appearance. BRVO, on the other hand, affects a branch of the retinal vein, leading to more localized retinal hemorrhage and edema confined to the affected quadrant or sector. Visual acuity in CRVO can range from near-normal to profound loss, while BRVO typically presents with milder visual impairment, correlating with the affected area. Consider implementing a thorough fundus examination, including fluorescein angiography if necessary, to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of vascular involvement. Explore how optical coherence tomography (OCT) can further aid in evaluating macular edema and guiding treatment decisions.

Q: How do I effectively manage a patient presenting with ischemic central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) and neovascularization?

A: Managing ischemic CRVO with neovascularization requires prompt and targeted intervention to prevent further vision loss. Ischemic CRVO is characterized by extensive capillary non-perfusion, often leading to neovascular glaucoma, a sight-threatening complication. Treatment focuses on inhibiting the growth of new, abnormal blood vessels (neovascularization) which can cause vitreous hemorrhage, retinal detachment, and elevated intraocular pressure. Anti-VEGF therapy is the cornerstone of management, aiming to reduce vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels that drive neovascularization. Learn more about the various anti-VEGF agents available and their specific dosing regimens. Additionally, consider implementing panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) to reduce ischemic retinal areas and the production of VEGF. Close monitoring of intraocular pressure and regular follow-up examinations are crucial for optimal management and timely intervention in cases of neovascular glaucoma development.

Quick Tips

Practical Coding Tips
  • Code H34.81 for CRVO
  • Document laterality
  • Specify if ischemic
  • Query MD for clarity
  • Check 7th character

Documentation Templates

Patient presents with symptoms suggestive of Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO).  Presenting complaint includes sudden painless vision loss or blurred vision in the affected eye.  Examination reveals retinal hemorrhages, dilated and tortuous retinal veins, and optic disc edema.  Macular edema may be present, contributing to decreased visual acuity.  Differential diagnosis includes branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO), ocular ischemic syndrome, and diabetic retinopathy.  Fluorescein angiography (FA) may be performed to confirm the diagnosis of CRVO and assess macular perfusion. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is utilized to evaluate the presence and extent of macular edema.  The patient's medical history was reviewed for risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, glaucoma, and cardiovascular disease.  Initial treatment plan includes close observation and management of underlying systemic conditions.  Intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF agents may be considered for macular edema to improve visual acuity.  Patient education regarding the condition, potential complications including neovascular glaucoma, and the importance of follow-up care was provided.  The patient will be scheduled for regular ophthalmologic examinations to monitor disease progression and response to treatment. ICD-10 code H34.81, Central retinal vein occlusion, is recorded for this encounter.