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I49.3
ICD-10-CM
Ventricular Bigeminy

Understand ventricular bigeminy with this comprehensive guide covering diagnosis, clinical documentation, and medical coding. Learn about PVCs, premature ventricular contractions, ECG interpretation, and ICD-10 codes I49.3 and I49.4. Find information on treatment options, symptoms, and long-term management of ventricular bigeminy for healthcare professionals and patients. Explore resources for accurate medical coding and billing related to this cardiac arrhythmia.

Also known as

Ventricular Bigemini
PVC Bigeminy

Diagnosis Snapshot

Key Facts
  • Definition : Every other heartbeat is a premature ventricular contraction (PVC).
  • Clinical Signs : Often asymptomatic, but can cause palpitations, skipped beats, or dizziness.
  • Common Settings : Stress, electrolyte imbalances, heart disease, caffeine, medications.

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to AAPC I49.3 Coding
I49.5

Ventricular premature contractions

This code specifies ventricular bigeminy and other premature ventricular contractions.

I49

Other cardiac arrhythmias

Includes various arrhythmias not classified elsewhere, potentially encompassing bigeminy.

I47.1

Ventricular tachycardia

While not strictly bigeminy, it can be related if bigeminy progresses to more frequent PVCs.

I45.9

Conduction disorders unspecified

May be relevant if underlying conduction issues contribute to ventricular bigeminy.

Code-Specific Guidance

Decision Tree for

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

Is ventricular bigeminy due to a drug?

  • Yes

    Specify the drug.

  • No

    Is there underlying heart disease?

Code Comparison

Related Codes Comparison

When to use each related code

Description
Every other heartbeat is a PVC.
Two PVCs in a row.
Three or more PVCs in a row.

Documentation Best Practices

Documentation Checklist
  • Document ECG findings: premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) every other beat.
  • Specify PVC morphology: uniform or multiform?
  • Quantify PVC burden: frequent, occasional, or rare?
  • Note any related symptoms: palpitations, dizziness, syncope.
  • Document underlying heart conditions or triggers if present.

Mitigation Tips

Best Practices
  • Document ECG findings, symptoms, & PMHx accurately for correct ICD-10-CM I49.4 coding.
  • Thorough HPI clarifies benign vs. pathologic VB for optimal CDI & risk adjustment.
  • Review medication list for potential triggers; document changes for compliance.
  • Assess electrolytes; correct imbalances. Clearly document for improved care & coding.
  • Lifestyle modification counseling (diet, exercise, stress reduction) & documented follow-up.

Clinical Decision Support

Checklist
  • Review ECG for alternating normal/PVC beats
  • Document PVC morphology LBBB/RBBB
  • Assess symptoms palpitations dizziness syncope
  • Check electrolytes K Mg Ca
  • Evaluate medications contributing to PVCs

Reimbursement and Quality Metrics

Impact Summary
  • Ventricular bigeminy reimbursement hinges on accurate coding (ICD-10 I49.3) and documentation of frequency, symptoms, and treatment. Impacts:
  • Coding accuracy directly impacts reimbursement rates and claim denials.
  • Proper documentation supports medical necessity for higher level CPT codes and better reimbursement.
  • Quality metrics: Ventricular bigeminy management affects core measures related to heart failure and arrhythmia care.

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
  • Document premature ventricular contractions
  • Code I49.3 for Ventricular Bigeminy
  • Verify underlying heart conditions
  • Check documentation for frequency/symptoms
  • Consider additional codes if warranted

Documentation Templates

Patient presents with complaints consistent with ventricular bigeminy.  Symptoms reported include palpitations, skipped heartbeats, and occasional chest discomfort.  Electrocardiogram (ECG, EKG) confirms the diagnosis of ventricular bigeminy, demonstrating a characteristic pattern of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) occurring every other beat.  Frequency of PVCs noted, and morphology assessed for uniformity.  Patient denies syncope, dizziness, or lightheadedness.  Medical history reviewed, including current medications, history of cardiac disease, and family history of arrhythmias.  Risk factors for ventricular bigeminy, such as electrolyte imbalances, myocardial ischemia, caffeine intake, and stress levels, were assessed.  Current vital signs stable.  Treatment plan includes further investigation to determine the underlying cause of the ventricular bigeminy.  Laboratory tests, including electrolytes and thyroid function tests, ordered.  Cardiac monitoring, such as a Holter monitor or event recorder, may be considered for further evaluation.  Patient education provided regarding lifestyle modifications, including stress reduction techniques and avoidance of caffeine and other stimulants.  Potential complications of ventricular bigeminy, including more serious arrhythmias, discussed.  Follow-up appointment scheduled for further evaluation and management based on test results.  Differential diagnoses considered included atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and supraventricular tachycardia. ICD-10 code I49.3 (Ventricular premature beats) assigned.
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