Find information on Right Leg Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) diagnosis, including clinical documentation, medical coding, and healthcare guidance. Learn about symptoms, risk factors, and treatment for lower extremity DVT, including ICD-10 code I80.21. Explore resources for healthcare professionals on venous thrombosis, anticoagulation therapy, and Doppler ultrasound diagnosis of DVT in the right leg. This resource supports accurate clinical documentation and proper medical coding for optimal patient care.
Also known as
Deep vein thrombosis of lower extremity
Specifies right leg DVT without further details.
Phlebitis and thrombophlebitis
Includes superficial thrombophlebitis that may accompany DVT.
Other venous embolism and thrombosis
Covers other locations if right leg DVT extends or has unusual features.
Personal history of venous thromboembolism
Relevant for recurrent or past right leg DVT.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the DVT in the right leg?
Yes
Is the DVT proximal?
No
This decision tree is for RIGHT leg DVT. Re-evaluate diagnosis.
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Right Leg DVT |
| Left Leg DVT |
| Lower Extremity DVT |
Missing or incorrect laterality (right leg) specification can lead to coding errors and claim denials. Ensure proper I80.21 code use.
Coding as unspecified DVT (I80.9) when right leg location is known leads to lower reimbursement and data inaccuracy. CDI review crucial.
Miscoding superficial thrombophlebitis as deep vein thrombosis impacts severity documentation and potential medical necessity audits.
Q: What are the most effective diagnostic imaging modalities for confirming suspected right leg deep vein thrombosis in a symptomatic patient, and how do their sensitivities and specificities compare?
A: When a patient presents with symptoms suggestive of right leg deep vein thrombosis (DVT), such as unilateral leg swelling, pain, and erythema, confirming the diagnosis promptly and accurately is crucial. Compression ultrasonography (CUS) is typically the first-line imaging modality due to its widespread availability, non-invasive nature, and relatively low cost. CUS possesses high sensitivity (85-95%) and specificity (90-98%) for proximal DVT, but its accuracy can be lower for distal DVT. If CUS is inconclusive or if there is a high clinical suspicion despite a negative CUS, alternative imaging modalities such as venography (considered the gold standard but invasive), computed tomography venography (CTV), or magnetic resonance venography (MRV) may be considered. CTV and MRV offer improved visualization of the iliac veins and inferior vena cava, which is particularly relevant in cases of suspected extensive DVT. Explore how incorporating a structured diagnostic algorithm that considers clinical probability and D-dimer testing can optimize the diagnostic pathway for right leg DVT. Learn more about the advantages and limitations of each imaging modality in various clinical scenarios.
Q: How does the differential diagnosis for right leg deep vein thrombosis differ in a pregnant patient, and what specific considerations should guide clinical decision-making?
A: Diagnosing right leg deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in pregnant patients presents unique challenges due to the physiological changes of pregnancy, which can mimic DVT symptoms, and the potential risks of radiation exposure from some imaging modalities. The differential diagnosis in pregnancy expands to include conditions like physiological leg edema, varicose veins, muscle strain, and round ligament pain. Clinical assessment becomes even more crucial in this population, with a careful evaluation of risk factors such as prior history of venous thromboembolism (VTE), family history of thrombophilia, and immobility. While compression ultrasonography (CUS) remains the preferred initial imaging modality due to its safety, adapting the interpretation criteria for pregnant patients is essential, as venous distensibility is altered during pregnancy. D-dimer levels are also physiologically elevated in pregnancy, making their utility in ruling out DVT limited. Consider implementing strategies for minimizing radiation exposure if advanced imaging, such as CT venography or MR venography, is necessary. Learn more about the specific protocols and precautions for managing VTE in pregnant patients.
Patient presents with complaints consistent with right leg deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Symptoms include right calf pain, swelling, and tenderness to palpation. The patient reports onset of symptoms approximately three days ago, with a gradual increase in intensity. The patient denies any chest pain, shortness of breath, or hemoptysis. Physical examination reveals edema in the right lower extremity, with increased warmth and erythema noted over the affected area. Homan's sign is negative. Peripheral pulses are palpable. Differential diagnosis includes cellulitis, muscle strain, Baker's cyst, and venous insufficiency. Given the patient's presentation and risk factors, a venous duplex ultrasound of the right lower extremity was ordered to evaluate for deep vein thrombosis. The ultrasound confirmed the presence of an acute DVT in the right popliteal vein. Assessment: Acute right leg deep vein thrombosis (ICD-10 I80.211). Plan: Initiate anticoagulation therapy with rivaroxaban (Xarelto) 15 mg twice daily for 21 days, followed by 20 mg daily for extended treatment. Patient education provided regarding the signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism (PE), bleeding complications, and medication adherence. Follow-up appointment scheduled in one week to assess treatment response and monitor for potential complications. Discussed the importance of compression therapy and leg elevation. Patient verbalized understanding of the treatment plan and potential risks. Medical coding: ICD-10-CM I80.211, CPT 76937.