Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation ICD-10-CM Codes

What ICD-10 codes are used for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation?

Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) is a type of atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common arrhythmia of the atria where the heartbeat becomes irregular and often rapid. It is an irregular heart rhythm that starts and stops suddenly, affecting the heart’s ability to pump efficiently.

As part of the circulatory system, this arrhythmia can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and ventricular fibrillation if left unmanaged.

In paroxysmal AFib, the episodes come and go, typically lasting less than 7 days and often resolving on their own. It can increase the risk of stroke, blood clots, and heart failure, especially if left untreated.

Here are some of the standard paf ICD codes:

I48.0 - Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation

This is the specific code for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation ICD 10. It refers to intermittent episodes of AFib that start suddenly and stop on their own.

I48.20 - Chronic atrial fibrillation, unspecified

Also referred to as chronic persistent atrial fibrillation, but not specified. The condition is ongoing and may require long-term medications or procedures.

I48.11 – Long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation

This refers to AFib that last longer than 12 months. Often occurs in patients with other chronic heart conditions.

I48.21 – Permanent atrial fibrillation

This code indicates that the condition is persistent and no further attempts to restore normal rhythm will be made. Associated with chronic atrial dysfunction.

I48.91 - Unspecified atrial fibrillation

This code is used when the type of atrial fibrillation is not documented in the patient's medical record.

I48.92 - Unspecified atrial flutter

Used when the patient presents atrial flutter, a condition closely related to atrial fibrillation, but it is not specified the type.

I48.3 – Typical atrial flutter

A related atrial arrhythmia characterized by a rapid but regular heart rhythm. Often grouped under fibrillation and flutter codes.

Which paroxysmal atrial fibrillation ICD codes are billable?

All the codes listed above are billable diagnosis codes under the ICD-10-CM. However, specificity is important for accurate billing and to avoid insurance claim denials. Avoid unspecified codes if documentation allows for a more precise diagnosis.

Clinical information

Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) is an irregular heart rhythm characterized by brief episodes of atrial fibrillation that start and stop suddenly. Here's more clinical information about it:

• Paroxysmal AFib is often triggered by premature depolarization, atrial premature depolarization, or underlying heart disease.

• PAF episodes usually last less than 24 hours, but in some cases, they may persist for up to a week.
• Symptoms typically include heart palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, and anxiety. However, some people might not experience any symptoms.
• A family history of atrial fibrillation, heart disease, or stroke may increase a patient’s risk of developing paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, especially when combined with hypertension or other chronic conditions.
• Risks include stroke, heart failure, and thromboembolism.
• Even though PAF episodes stop without treatment, medical intervention can help control symptoms and reduce the risk of complications such as stroke and heart failure.
• Treatments may include medications like antiarrhythmic drugs, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, procedures like catheter ablation.
• Management often includes monitoring of the ventricular response, lifestyle modification, and addressing complications like hypertension or other diseases.
• Pregnancy, age, and documented risk factors can affect coding and treatment decisions.

Synonyms include

• Paroxysmal atrial
• Intermittent atrial fibrillation
• Irregular heartbeat
• Fibrillation and atrial flutter
• Chronic atrial fibrillation
• Fibrillation and flutter
• Paroxysmal tachycardia