PFO ICD-10-CM Codes | 2023

PFO ICD-10-CM Codes | 2023

Explore essential ICD-10 codes for Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) diagnosis—accurate coding for PFO-related conditions in healthcare documentation and billing.

By Carepatron Team on Jul 16, 2025.

Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.

Use Code

What ICD-10 codes are used for PFO?

The lone PFO ICD-10 code is Q21.12: Patent Foramen Ovale. The code can be found under the following chapter/code range:

  • Q21.1: Atrial septal defect
  • Q21: Congenital malformations of cardiac septa
  • Q00-Q99: Congenital malformations, deformations, and chromosomal abnormalities

The code, which is applicable to persistent foramen ovale, helps accurately document and classify cases involving PFO for medical and billing purposes.

Do note that codes under Q21 excludes acquired cardiac septal defect.

Which PFO ICD codes are billable?

The listed ICD-10 code for PFO-related conditions is generally billable. It is used for specific diagnoses related to PFO.

Proper coding is essential for accurate billing and reimbursement in healthcare settings. Always consult the latest coding guidelines and regulations to ensure accurate and up-to-date billing practices.

Clinical information

  • A congenital heart abnormality is characterized by an opening in the septum (wall) between the heart's two upper chambers (atria).
  • PFO is present in approximately 25% of the general population.
  • Many individuals with PFO remain asymptomatic throughout their lives, while others may experience symptoms or complications.
  • PFO is often investigated in cryptogenic strokes (strokes of unknown origin).
  • PFO allows blood clots or other particles to travel from the venous to the arterial circulation, potentially reaching the brain and causing a stroke.
  • Percutaneous closure of PFO has been explored as a treatment option for reducing migraine frequency in specific individuals.
  • PFO has been associated with decompression illness in divers.
  • Nitrogen bubbles formed during diving can cross the PFO and lead to symptoms known as "the bends."
  • PFO allows venous blood, including clots or other debris, to bypass the lungs and enter the systemic circulation, leading to paradoxical embolism.
  • Paradoxical embolisms may result in conditions such as pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, or stroke.
  • Echocardiography, including transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), is commonly used to diagnose and assess the severity of PFO.
  • Contrast agents may be used during echocardiography to detect the passage of blood through the PFO.
  • Medications, such as anticoagulants, may be prescribed to reduce the risk of clot formation.
  • Percutaneous closure procedures involve the placement of a closure device to seal the PFO, reducing the risk of paradoxical embolism.
  • Decision-making regarding treatment often considers the patient's clinical presentation, age, overall health, and the presence of associated conditions.
  • Regular follow-up and monitoring may be recommended, especially after closure procedures.

Synonyms include

  • Atrial septal defect (ASD)
  • Interatrial communication
  • Septal puncture
  • Foramen ovale persistens
  • Interatrial septal anomaly

Related ICDs

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