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I44.4
ICD-10-CM
Left Anterior Fascicular Block

Understanding Left Anterior Fascicular Block LAFB requires accurate clinical documentation and medical coding. This resource provides information on LAFB diagnosis, ECG findings, ICD-10 codes, and differential diagnosis considerations including left bundle branch block. Learn about the clinical significance of LAFB, common symptoms, and appropriate management strategies. Explore resources for healthcare professionals regarding left axis deviation, QRS complex morphology, and the implications for patient care.

Also known as

LAFB
Left Anterior Hemiblock

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to AAPC I44.4 Coding
I44-I45

Conduction disorders

Includes various heart rhythm disturbances like blocks.

I45.8

Other specified conduction disorders

Covers less common, specific conduction problems.

I49

Other cardiac arrhythmias

Includes general arrhythmias not classified elsewhere.

Code-Specific Guidance

Decision Tree for

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

Is the Left Anterior Fascicular Block (LAFB) the principal diagnosis?

  • Yes

    Is LAFB specified as new or acute?

  • No

    Is LAFB specified as new or acute?

Documentation Best Practices

Documentation Checklist
  • Document ECG findings: prolonged QRS, left axis deviation
  • Specify LAFB type: Sgarbossa criteria or other
  • Note associated conditions: hypertension, heart disease
  • Assess symptoms: dyspnea, syncope, chest pain
  • Rule out other causes of similar ECG changes

Coding and Audit Risks

Common Risks
  • Unspecified LAFB Type

    Coding LAFB without specifying complete or incomplete creates ambiguity and potential downcoding risk during audits.

  • LAFB with Other Blocks

    Overlooking additional conduction delays like RBBB when coding LAFB can lead to inaccurate reimbursement and compliance issues.

  • LAFB Documentation Clarity

    Insufficient physician documentation of LAFB diagnosis, including ECG findings, increases coding errors and audit vulnerability.

Mitigation Tips

Best Practices
  • Document LAFB diagnosis with ICD-10 I45.1, optimize CDI
  • Correlate LAFB ECG findings with clinical context for accurate coding
  • Address underlying causes (hypertension, CAD) for improved outcomes
  • Regular monitoring, medication adherence for LAFB management, ensure compliance
  • Patient education on lifestyle modifications for optimal cardiac health

Clinical Decision Support

Checklist
  • 1. QRS duration < 120ms?
  • 2. rS in leads II, III, aVF?
  • 3. qR in leads I, aVL?
  • 4. Left axis deviation (-30 to -90 degrees)?

Reimbursement and Quality Metrics

Impact Summary
  • Left Anterior Fascicular Block reimbursement impacts coding accuracy, affecting Medicare and private payer claims.
  • Accurate LAFB diagnosis coding (ICD-10 I45.1) is crucial for appropriate hospital reporting and resource allocation.
  • LAFB quality metrics impact includes monitoring prevalence, associated conditions, and potential complications like heart failure.
  • Complete LAFB documentation improves physician queries, reduces claim denials, and optimizes revenue cycle management.

Streamline Your Medical Coding

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

Quick Tips

Practical Coding Tips
  • Code I44.4 LAFB, document QRS axis deviation
  • Verify ECG findings: prolonged QRS, left axis deviation
  • Check for associated conditions: hypertension, CAD
  • Document LAFB type: complete or incomplete
  • Query physician if documentation unclear

Documentation Templates

Patient presents with findings suggestive of left anterior fascicular block (LAFB).  Electrocardiogram (ECG, EKG) demonstrates characteristic left axis deviation, with QRS duration within normal limits.  Specifically, the QRS axis is between -30 and -90 degrees.  Small q waves are noted in leads I and aVL, with small r waves in leads II, III, and aVF.  No significant ST segment or T wave changes indicative of ischemia or infarction are observed.  The patient denies chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or syncope.  Review of systems is otherwise unremarkable.  Past medical history includes hypertension, well controlled with medication.  Family history is significant for coronary artery disease.  Current medications include lisinopril.  Physical examination reveals a regular heart rate and rhythm, with normal heart sounds and no murmurs.  Blood pressure and respiratory rate are within normal limits.  The patient's presentation is consistent with an isolated left anterior fascicular block.  Given the absence of symptoms and other concerning findings, this is likely a benign finding.  No specific treatment for the left anterior fascicular block is indicated at this time.  The patient will be educated on the nature of this conduction abnormality and advised to follow up regularly for routine cardiovascular care.  Differential diagnosis includes other conduction abnormalities such as right bundle branch block, left bundle branch block, and nonspecific intraventricular conduction delay.  ICD-10 code I45.1, Left anterior fascicular block, is assigned.  Continued monitoring is recommended.
Left Anterior Fascicular Block - AI-Powered ICD-10 Documentation