Understand First-Degree Atrioventricular Block (First-Degree AV Block, 1st Degree AV Block) diagnosis, clinical significance, and medical coding. Learn about First-Degree A-V Block documentation requirements for healthcare professionals and find information on its impact on patient care. Explore resources for accurate and efficient clinical documentation and coding related to First-Degree Atrioventricular Block.
Also known as
First-degree atrioventricular block
Delayed conduction between the atria and ventricles of the heart.
Atrioventricular and left bundle-branch block
Disorders of the heart's electrical conduction system.
Conduction disorders
Conditions affecting the heart's electrical rhythm.
Diseases of the circulatory system
Encompasses various heart and blood vessel conditions.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the first-degree AV block congenital?
Yes
Associated with other congenital heart anomalies?
No
Is there documentation of other cardiac or systemic disease causing the AV block?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Delayed AV nodal conduction. |
| Intermittent dropped AV nodal beats. |
| Independent atrial and ventricular activity. |
Coding F10.1 requires specifying site (e.g., infra-Hisian). Unspecified documentation may lead to downcoding.
First-degree AV block must be differentiated from other conduction delays (e.g., RBBB, LBBB) to avoid inaccurate coding.
Incomplete documentation of underlying causes (e.g., MI, medications) impacts accurate secondary diagnosis coding and DRG assignment.
Q: What is the diagnostic criteria for first-degree atrioventricular block in adults, and how does it differ from second-degree AV block?
A: First-degree atrioventricular (AV) block is diagnosed by a prolonged PR interval exceeding 0.20 seconds (200 milliseconds) on a 12-lead ECG in adults, with all P waves followed by QRS complexes. This differs from second-degree AV block, where some P waves are not conducted to the ventricles, resulting in dropped QRS complexes. Second-degree AV block is further classified into Mobitz type I (Wenckebach) and Mobitz type II, distinguished by the pattern of PR interval prolongation preceding the blocked beat. Explore how these ECG characteristics differentiate varying degrees of AV block and guide appropriate management strategies.
Q: When does first-degree AV block require treatment, and what management strategies are recommended for asymptomatic patients?
A: Most cases of first-degree AV block in asymptomatic patients do not require specific treatment. The focus should be on identifying and managing any underlying reversible causes, such as medications (e.g., beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers), electrolyte imbalances, or other underlying cardiac conditions. Regular monitoring with ECGs is often recommended to assess for progression to higher-degree AV block. Consider implementing periodic ECG assessments in asymptomatic patients with first-degree AV block and explore potential underlying etiologies. Learn more about risk stratification and monitoring strategies for patients with asymptomatic first-degree AV block.
Patient presents with first-degree atrioventricular (AV) block, also documented as first-degree A-V block and 1st degree AV block. Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) findings reveal prolonged PR interval exceeding 0.20 seconds, however, all P waves are conducted to the ventricles. The patient reports experiencing no symptoms or reports mild symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, or lightheadedness. No significant past medical history of cardiac conditions was noted, although a review of systems was conducted to explore potential underlying causes. Differential diagnoses considered included other conduction abnormalities and sinus node dysfunction. Based on the current presentation and diagnostic criteria, the first-degree AV block is deemed benign and asymptomatic. No specific treatment is indicated at this time, but patient education regarding the condition and recommended follow-up ECG monitoring for any progression or development of symptoms is advised. ICD-10 code I44.1 is used for billing and coding purposes for this diagnosis of first-degree atrioventricular block. The patient understands the plan and will schedule a follow-up appointment. Prognosis is generally excellent for this condition.