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Q89.2
ICD-10-CM
Thyroglossal Duct Cyst

Find comprehensive information on thyroglossal duct cyst diagnosis, including clinical documentation, ICD-10 code Q89.2, SNOMED CT concept 788.0, differential diagnosis, treatment options, and surgical procedures. Learn about relevant medical coding guidelines for accurate healthcare billing and documentation. Explore symptoms, causes, and pathology of thyroglossal duct cysts for improved patient care and clinical decision-making. This resource provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals, medical coders, and patients seeking information on thyroglossal duct cyst management.

Also known as

Thyroglossal Cyst
Thyroglossal Duct Remnant

Diagnosis Snapshot

Key Facts
  • Definition : Birth defect causing a fluid-filled lump in the neck from a persistent thyroid duct.
  • Clinical Signs : Midline neck mass, moves with swallowing or tongue protrusion, sometimes infected.
  • Common Settings : Pediatric outpatient clinic, ENT specialist, sometimes requires surgery.

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to AAPC Q89.2 Coding
Q89.2

Thyroglossal duct cyst

Congenital cyst arising from remnants of the thyroglossal duct.

Q89

Congenital malformations of other parts

Includes congenital anomalies not classified elsewhere.

Q00-Q99

Congenital malformations, deformations

Covers all congenital malformations, deformations, and chromosomal abnormalities.

Code-Specific Guidance

Decision Tree for

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

Is the thyroglossal duct cyst infected?

  • Yes

    Acute infection?

  • No

    Code as Q89.2, Thyroglossal duct cyst

Code Comparison

Related Codes Comparison

When to use each related code

Description
Thyroglossal Duct Cyst
Branchial Cleft Cyst
Dermoid Cyst

Documentation Best Practices

Documentation Checklist
  • Thyroglossal duct cyst location, size documented
  • Physical exam findings: midline neck mass, mobility with swallowing/tongue protrusion
  • Imaging results: ultrasound or CT scan findings supporting diagnosis
  • Differential diagnoses considered and ruled out (e.g., lymphadenopathy)
  • Pre-op diagnosis: Thyroglossal Duct Cyst (ICD-10 code: Q89.2)

Coding and Audit Risks

Common Risks
  • Unclear Documentation

    Insufficient documentation to distinguish between cyst, sinus, or fistula, impacting code selection (Q89.2 vs. Q89.3).

  • Infection Miscoding

    Incorrectly coding infected thyroglossal duct cyst with general infection codes instead of combination codes reflecting both diagnoses.

  • Age Specificity Oversight

    Failing to account for congenital nature when coding in pediatric patients, potentially leading to inaccurate reimbursement.

Mitigation Tips

Best Practices
  • Document cyst location, size, mobility for accurate ICD-10 coding (Q89.2).
  • Capture symptoms like dysphagia, dyspnea for complete CDI and E/M coding.
  • Ensure informed consent for surgical excision, addressing risks and alternatives.
  • Pathology report review crucial for confirming diagnosis, optimizing HCC coding.
  • Correlate imaging (ultrasound/CT) with clinical findings for compliant billing.

Clinical Decision Support

Checklist
  • Midline neck mass, moves with swallowing/tongue protrusion?
  • Consider ultrasound or CT imaging to confirm diagnosis.
  • Rule out ectopic thyroid tissue via thyroid scan.
  • Surgical excision recommended, document Sistrunk procedure if performed.
  • Monitor for recurrence, especially if Sistrunk not performed.

Reimbursement and Quality Metrics

Impact Summary
  • Thyroglossal Duct Cyst Reimbursement: ICD-10 Q89.2, CPT 60280 (excision), impacts MS-DRG 094/095 (clean/postop complications)
  • Coding Accuracy: Precise documentation of cyst location, size, infection status affects payment and quality metrics.
  • Hospital Reporting: Thyroglossal Duct Cyst excision tracked for surgical site infection (SSI) rates, readmissions.
  • Quality Metrics Impact: Accurate coding and documentation minimize claim denials, improve hospital quality scores.

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.

Quick Tips

Practical Coding Tips
  • Code Q89.2 Thyroglossal duct cyst
  • Verify cyst location documentation
  • Exclude infection (add code if present)
  • Check age, neonatal code is Q89.2
  • Consider imaging confirmation documentation

Documentation Templates

Patient presents with a midline neck mass consistent with a thyroglossal duct cyst.  The patient reports a palpable, non-tender, and mobile mass located in the anterior neck, specifically at or near the hyoid bone.  The mass may move with swallowing or tongue protrusion.  Symptoms may include dysphagia, dyspnea, or a sensation of fullness in the throat, though the patient may be asymptomatic.  Differential diagnosis includes branchial cleft cyst, dermoid cyst, lymphadenopathy, and thyroid nodule.  Physical examination reveals a smooth, fluctuant mass.  Ultrasound of the neck was performed to confirm the diagnosis of thyroglossal duct cyst and evaluate its characteristics, including size, location, and relationship to surrounding structures.  Surgical excision, specifically the Sistrunk procedure, is the recommended treatment to prevent recurrence and potential complications such as infection or rarely, malignant transformation.  Risks and benefits of the procedure were discussed with the patient, including potential complications such as bleeding, infection, hypothyroidism, and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury.  Patient education provided regarding post-operative care and follow-up.  ICD-10 code Q89.2 (thyroglossal duct anomaly) and CPT code 60280 (thyroglossal duct cyst excision, Sistrunk procedure) are appropriate for this encounter.  Follow-up appointment scheduled for post-operative evaluation and monitoring.